The ever-so-popular Tillandsia xerographica [pronounced: zero-grafika] is a favorite among air plant collectors, hobbyists and novices alike. With its unique round shape boasting thick, silvery curling leaves and bright orange blooming spikes, it is no wonder this species of air plant has been in high demand and frequently exported from Central America since the 1980s. However, due to former unregulated trade, the Xerographica plants were originally harvested from their natural habitats in the arid lowlands of Guatemala and Southern Mexico consequentially causing them to almost become extinct. It wasn’t until 1994 that the Tillandsia Xerographica species was declared endangered by the Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) after agricultural officials in the Netherlands were alerted of a suspicious shipment from Guatemala.
Lucky for air plant lovers, CITES has allowed farmers to propagate the Xerographica plants due to the necessity to reproduce the endangered species. Following strict guidelines, farms have been able to produce increasing quantities of the plant since the early 2000s. One requirement of propagation farming is to keep a certain number of offsets (commonly and endearingly referred to as pups) to grow into future mother plants. CITES frequently checks the certified growers to ensure the farms are not over-selling the Xerographica plants so that there are enough mothers for the future generations.
In addition to the propagation of offsets (asexual reproduction), Xerographica plants can also be grown from seeds (sexual reproduction). Propagation has traditionally been the preferred method due to its reliability and quick turnover as the pups only take a couple of years until they are ready for sale. Until the past decade, sexual reproduction through seeds has been considered too difficult as plants may take 8 or more years from germination to a full grown “large” plant of about 8 inches in diameter. However, farming Xerographica plants from seeds does have its advantage over propagation as it increases both genetic diversity and the number of plants on the farms whereas growing offsets only will just provide copies of the mother plants which could lead to an overall weaker plant stock.
The process of growing Xerographica from seeds is arduous and requires time, patience and large investment in both greenhouse infrastructure and workers. In addition to waiting for the plants to bloom to cross pollinate, farmers must also scope out the Xerographica that are producing seeds since not all of them will. Once the seeds are gathered, they are prepared on wind screen material to begin the germination process. After four or five years, hardy seedling Xerographica plants will form and show a regular adult shape but at a much smaller size.
Thanks to air plant farms that invest in the meticulous process of hand pollination to grow genetically diverse Xerographica from seeds, air plant enthusiasts can enjoy the species for generations to come! Here at Air Plant City, we are committed to farming Tillandsia ethically and sustainably. We follow the appropriate regulations and support farms and farmers who do the same. Shop our Xerographica seedlings here.
Tillandsia, commonly known as air plants, are unique epiphytic plants that don’t require soil to grow. With their minimal root systems, air plants absorb moisture and nutrients directly from the air. This makes them perfect for growing in creative displays without soil.
While air plants are most often propagated by pups and offsets from mature plants, you can also grow them from tiny seeds with the right techniques. Germinating the microscopic tillandsia seeds takes patience and care, but it’s a rewarding way to expand your air plant collection.
In this comprehensive guide you’ll discover everything you need to know about successfully growing tillandsia air plants from seeds starting with gathering viable seeds all the way to nurturing mature plants.
Gathering and Preparing Viable Tillandsia Seeds
The first step is getting your hands on some high-quality fresh air plant seeds. Here are a few options for sourcing viable seeds
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Purchase seeds from reputable online sellers that specialize in air plants. Opt for those that guarantee freshness and germination rates.
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Carefully collect seeds from the dried seed pods of blooming adult tillandsia plants. Allow pods to fully ripen and dry before harvesting.
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Join seed trade groups and networks to exchange viable seeds with fellow air plant enthusiasts and growers.
Once you’ve acquired seeds, inspect them closely. Healthy tillandsia seeds are tiny black specks. Discard any seeds that are malformed, moldy or damaged. For best germination rates, use freshly harvested seeds within a few months before viability decreases. Store seeds in a cool, dry area until ready to plant.
Choosing the Right Germination Method and Medium
To sprout their microscopic seeds, air plants need very specific conditions. The germination method and planting medium you use will significantly impact success. Here are some effective options:
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Plastic Screen: Stretch plastic window screen across a frame and mist frequently to maintain airflow and humidity. The open structure secures seeds while allowing light and air exposure.
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Nylon Stockings: Use nylon stockings or pantyhose stretched over a ring for breathability. The fibers provide anchorage for establishing seeds. Mist the interior frequently for even moisture.
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Tree Fern Fiber: Attach dried tree fern fiber vertically to a wall or frame. The fibrous pads have lots of nooks for seeds to flourish while promoting ample air circulation. Keep the wall-mounted fiber misted.
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Orchid Mix: An airy orchid bark and moss mix in a well-ventilated container also works. Mist to maintain moisture without oversaturation.
Sowing Tillandsia Seeds with Care
Once your seeds, chosen medium and supplies are set, it’s go time! Follow these key steps for sowing:
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Moisten the germination medium lightly before sowing. Avoid oversaturating.
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Use tweezers to carefully place seeds across the medium’s surface, spacing evenly but not too dense.
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Gently press seeds onto the medium with a cotton swab or fingertip to ensure contact.
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Enclose plastic screen and nylon methods in a ventilated case or under plastic wrap to boost humidity.
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Position seeded fiber pads or open flats in bright indirect light. Avoid direct hot sunlight.
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Maintain temperatures between 65-80°F for optimal germination. Prevent dramatic temperature fluctuations.
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Mist gently when needed to restore moisture, but don’t soak the medium. Strike a balance!
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Be patient! Tillandsia seeds may take weeks or even months to germinate. Don’t give up.
Caring for Developing Tillandsia Seedlings
Once tiny seedlings emerge, they need attentive care to grow into mature plants:
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Gradually increase light exposure to strengthen leaves, but avoid direct hot sun.
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Slowly reduce humidity over 4-6 weeks by removing any covers and allowing more airflow.
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Monitor moisture closely. Seedlings need frequent watering but also quickly rot if oversaturated.
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Transplant into individual small containers or displays once seedlings reach 1-2 inches in size.
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Apply diluted orchid fertilizer or air plant food once every 2-4 weeks to nourish growth.
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Ensure adequate airflow and dry periods between waterings to prevent fungal issues.
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Expect a 1-3 year wait for seedlings to fully mature, depending on species. Consistency is key!
Troubleshooting Common Germination Issues
Growing air plants from seeds can be tricky. Here are some solutions for potential problems:
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Seeds not sprouting: This can be from old seeds, insufficient moisture or temperature extremes. Obtain fresh seeds and modify your sowing conditions.
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Rotting seeds: Too many seeds clustered together or overwatering causes rot. Sow more thinly and allow the medium to dry adequately between waterings.
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Seedlings dying off: Lack of humidity, light issues or temperature fluctuations can kill seedlings. Adjust conditions to suit their needs.
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Mold or fungi: Excess moisture and humidity fuels fungal growth. Improve airflow and reduce watering frequency.
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Slow growth: Insufficient light, nutrients or improper temperatures will retard growth. Increase sunlight, fertilize regularly and maintain optimal temps.
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Leggy or weak plants: Inadequate sunlight results in thin, stretched growth. Provide seedlings with gradual increased direct sun exposure.
With attentive care, persistence and trial and error, you can overcome challenges and experience the reward of growing tillandsias from seed to maturity!
Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Tillandsia from Seeds
Here are answers to some common questions about propagating air plants from seeds:
Where can I buy tillandsia seeds?
Reputable online sellers, Etsy shops, eBay, Amazon, specialty nurseries and local plant shops may carry air plant seeds. Availability can be limited.
What are good starter air plant species for seed growing?
Some easier species for beginners are Tillandsia ionantha, T. fuchsii, T. juncea and T. balbisiana. Avoid trickier species like T. xerographica at first.
How long does it take for tillandsia seeds to sprout?
Germination time varies significantly from 2-3 weeks up to several months depending on the species, seed freshness and growing conditions. Patience is required.
Should I use filtered or distilled water?
Filtered or distilled water is better than tap water for seedlings, as the lack of minerals reduces the risk of leaf buildup.
When can I remove humidity domes and expose seedlings to dry air?
Gradually reduce humidity over 4-6 weeks after seedlings have established leaves and roots. Then fully remove any humidity covers.
How do I fertilize tillandsia seedlings?
Use a dilute solution of specialized tillandsia or orchid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing delicate seedlings.
What problems occur when growing tillandsia from seeds?
Common issues include failure to germinate, rot, collapse, fungal disease, slow growth, leggy plants and leaf burn. Careful moisture control, cleanliness and airflow prevent many problems.
Will seed-grown plants be identical to the parent?
There may be some genetic variation when growing from seeds, especially with hybrids. Seed-grown offspring likely won’t be identical to the parent plant.
Growing air plants from seeds requires careful focus and patience, but it’s a uniquely rewarding way to expand your tillandsia collection. With the right techniques and persistence, you can successfully sprout these captivating epiphytes from tiny seeds into mature, lush plants.
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