Bromeliad Basics: Potting Medium

Author: Melanie Dearringer4 Comments

Care and Culture

In this article you’ll find helpful information on the general soil requirements for a bromeliad plant.

Potting Medium

Most bromeliads take up nutrients and moisture through their leaves and cups. They do not depend on their roots for sustenance the way most other plants do. And, because many bromeliads are tree-dwellers, their roots are accustomed to sudden flushes of moisture followed by periods of dryness. Fast drainage is therefore important, along with some air in the root zone. To meet these needs, use a special bromeliad mix comprised of 1 part peat moss, 1 part sand or perlite, and 1 part chopped, decomposed tree bark or pine needles. This is an acidic mix, which is good. Never add lime to potting mixed used for bromeliads. If you prefer, potting soil developed for use with orchids is suitable for bromeliads.

For even more information on bromeliad basic care, check out these great articles:
Bromeliad Basics: An Introduction
Bromeliad Basics: Temperature
Bromeliad Basics: Fertilizer
Bromeliad Basics: Watering
Bromeliad Basics: Lighting
Bromeliad Basics: Repotting
Bromeliad Basics: Propagation