How to Trim an Air Plant as It Lengthens

Air plants belong to the genus Tillandsia, which includes well-known epiphytic plant species such as Spanish moss. They require little care apart from occasional watering; however, sometimes the leaves require light trimming if the tips dry out and turn brown. While not difficult, trimming air plants must be done sparingly since removing too much length from the leaves will inhibit the plant's ability to feed itself and may shorten its lifespan.

Floral snips
Tissue

Instructions

- 1
  Water your air plant thoroughly before trimming it. Dip the plant in water to saturate the leaves and roots. Shake the air plant gently to remove the excess water. Let the leaves dry off for an hour before trimming the leaves.
- 2
  Locate all the problematic leaves on the air plant. Look for leaves with visible defects, damage or brown flesh on the tips. Avoid disturbing or cutting the healthy leaves since you will diminish the plant's ability to photosynthesize.
- 3
  Position a pair of floral snips 1/4-inch above the damaged portion of the leaf. Observe the natural angle of the tapering at the end of the leaf. Adjust the angle of the shears so the trimmed edge will look natural.
- 4
  Make the cut at the appropriate angle. Dab the cut-end of the air plant leaf with a piece of tissue to staunch any moisture loss. Hold the tissue in place for 30 seconds then carefully remove and discard it.
- 5
  Trim the air plant's leaves as needed throughout the year. Avoid removing more than a third of the length from each leaf when trimming. Wait at least one week after trimming to feed or water the air plant again.

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