Do Bromeliads Get Water Through Their Roots?

Terrestrial

• Bromeliads that seek nutrients and moisture from the earth are called terrestrial. Like other more traditional plants, terrestrials dig roots into the soil in search of moisture. Terrestrial bromeliads draw nutrient-laden water through roots and distribute it to the rest of the plant. All varieties of bromeliad, even those that are not terrestrial, have trichomes -- nearly microscopic scales on their leaves. Trichomes help the plant retain moisture in arid climates with abundant sunshine.

Soil

• Terrestrial bromeliads require well-drained soil that is porous enough to allow air pockets around the roots. They will take a good watering, but do not thrive when standing in water for long periods of time. Let the soil dry out between waterings. While diseases are not often a problem with bromeliads, soils that do not drain quickly may provide the conditions that lead to root rot.

Epiphytic

• Most bromeliad species are epiphytic, meaning they do not require soil. Instead, these varieties take in nutrients and moisture from the air. Roots of epiphytic bromeliad species serve as anchors when the plant attaches itself to wood, rocks or other plants. The bromeliad wraps its roots securely around the host object before the roots harden and leave behind a twisted mass as tough as wire. Epiphytic bromeliads do not soak up water through roots, but they do require that roots remain moist. An occasional spritzing of water takes care of this need. Epiphytic bromeliads are not parasitic, and do not depend on the host for nutrients.

Leaf Cups

• Many species of bromeliad -- terrestrial or epiphytic -- have leaf cups. The cup is a symmetrical rosette of leaves that radiate from the plant’s center. On epiphytic varieties, the cup is essential as a water reservoir. The leaf cup also contains organic matter that breaks down and supplies nutrients to the plant. When growing epiphytic bromeliads, keep the leaf cup filled with clean, fresh water. Epiphytic bromeliads do best when supplied with spring water or rain water.