Over the past few weeks I have spoken about several species of Bromeliads as decorative potted plants and pineapples which are planted for their commercial value and because they are rich in Vitamin C.
Establishing a Bromeliad tree is an added attraction to any indoor setting or in a shaded area in an outdoor garden.
Anchor a cut tree with a couple of branches in a large pot or wooden tub. Clean off all leaves from the tree. Firmly add some rocks around the trunk. Select a variety of Bromeliads to be secured in the fork of the branches. You can use plastic coated wire to firmly strap plants on the tree. Some examples you can use areTillandsias, Aechmeas, Cryptanthus, Guzmanias, Swordtails, etc. Around the base of the trunk you can fill in the space with small ferns, Guzmanias and Earthstars; also along the branches, small creeping plants can be added.
When you have finished, stand back and admire your Bromeliad tree; it will stand out in any garden setting or indoor area. How about trying one? It’s quite easy to work on.
At present, my Guzmania plants from last year and the previous year are in full bloom and are looking quite exotic.
It was quite disappointing to see after writing on Bromeliads for weeks that they were wrongly placed as exhibits in the recent Flower Show. Both competitors and stewards need to improve their knowledge and understanding of the show schedule. I hope by next year’s show they would be able to get it right!
Until next week, Happy Gardening!
