SUN LOVING BROMELIADS

Bromeliads are o en overlooked for a sunny garden because they are thought of as tropical or sub-tropical plants that want a moist, shady spot. But many are sun-lovers and thrive in an arid environment. These bromeliads are also cold-hardy, coming from regions where the temperatures drop dramatically at night.

Maintenance

This garden, Paradox, on the NSW Central Coast, was created by nurseryman Ray Henderson and features semi-terrestrial and epiphytic bromeliads and succulents.

Water Because the plants have low water needs, they generally only need a spray when the weather is hot or during extended dry periods.

Feed Apply slow-release fertiliser when you’re planting, either in a pot or a garden bed, then again in spring.

Mulch Apply heavy, organic mulch such as bark to help keep down weeds and to replenish the soil as the mulch breaks down.

Propagating bromeliads

Many bromeliads flower only once, but soon a er will produce offshoots, or ‘pups’, at the base of the plant. When the pups are about a third of the size of their ‘mother’, you can cut them away, keeping roots intact, and plant in pots of quality po”ing mix.