See an orchid, love an orchid. But a Tillandsia? What’s that??
Tillandsia are fascinating epiphytes who belong to the bromeliad family and are quickly growing in popularity. You may know them more commonly as “air plants.” Like all epiphytic plants, they do not require soil, as the water and nutrients needed for survival are absorbed through their leaves. You can dangle and perch them almost anywhere in your home, office or garden. Just look up in any tree at Selby Gardens and you’re bound to find a happy community of Tillandsia hanging out! Known for their spiky shape and extremely low-maintenance, these modern beauties are favored for not only growing, but décor and crafting, too.
Selby has an exciting new crafty, hands-on activity underway involving Tillandsia in the Ann Goldstein’s Children’s Rainforest Garden. The project models the practice of environmental stewardship to future generations. Dubbed the “I <3 Selby” community project, youngsters may adopt a Tillandsia of their very own.
Here’s how it works:
- Pick up a Tillandsia kit in the Welcome Center and/or Garden Shop at Selby Gardens (kits are less than $5 and contain one air plant, tag for adding child’s name + zip tie to hang plant)
- Identify your child’s plant with his/her name on a heart-tag
- Proudly display your child’s personalized Tillandsia in the Children’s Rainforest for all to see
- Take home your personalized Tillandsia adoption certificate
- Visit often to watch your air plant’s growth progress
Conservation is a core value at Selby Gardens and we endeavor to set an example for others to follow. The better we understand the living world, the better we are able to preserve it for future generations. “I <3 Selby” was designed to foster an appreciation for epiphytes, conservation and philanthropy with kids and their families. It is a fun way for the whole family to create, collaborate and contribute!
For more information about “I <3 Selby”, ask one of our wonderful volunteers in the Welcome Center or contact Jeannie Perales, Director of Education at jperales@s33944.p20.sites.pressdns.com or 941-366-5731 ext. 237.