How to Protect Bromeliads

There are over 3,000 bromeliad species, the most famous of which is the pineapple. A diverse group of plants, the family also includes Spanish moss. The bromeliads commonly grown indoors, or outdoors in tropical and subtropical climates, provide striking color wherever they're grown. Most bromeliads have a rosette in the center from which the flower stalk emerges. After flowering, the plant dies, but before doing so, produces pups -- baby bromeliads -- at its base. Although bromeliads are easy to care for and require little of the gardener, there are a few things they need to be protected from.

Burlap or tree branches

Instructions

- 1
  Protect the bromeliad from fungal diseases by growing it in an area with good ventilation. Air circulation around the plant also discourages pests such a spider mites.
- 2
  Decrease the amount of water given outdoor bromeliads as you head into winter. Do this gradually until, by the first frost, the plant is receiving no water. This forces it into dormancy and allows it to better handle cold weather.
- 3
  Provide outdoor bromeliads with frost and wind protection by covering them with burlap or tree branches or moving it indoors. Frost damage, which may not be apparent immediately, includes browning of the foliage and rotting at the base of the plant.
- 4
  Experiment with different sunlight levels for the indoor bromeliad. Some bromeliads will be scorched in too much sun, while others require direct sun for the best color.
- 5
  Protect the outdoor bromeliad from pressure-treated lumber or copper as these materials are toxic to the plants.
- 6
  Avoid over watering bromeliads to prevent root rot. The plants should not be kept in wet soil. According to Florida nursery Tropiflora, "when in doubt, don't water."

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