Yellow Bromeliad
The Yellow Bromeliad is an evergreen perennial houseplant belonging to the Neoregelia genus and Bromeliaceae family. They grow in a rosette and reach a maximum height of around 1-2 feet. They have of two distinct types of foliage, one being dark green and the other lighter yellow-green with a deep blush on its exterior. As a native to the forests of South American, they are well adapted to thrive when they get the most sunlight possible, and in turn that’s why they make for a great houseplant as they won’t need to be outside to grow. It has the unique advantage of being able to bloom beautiful flowers for high extended periods of time when cared for properly.
Bromeliads prefer to have a consistently moist soil as they thrive off the abundance of humidity. As a result, they should be watered twice a week. When watering your bromeliad, you will want to make sure the potting mix of the soil is evenly moist. You can do this by using a soil moisture meter to test the soil and watering your plant accordingly. Additionally, it is important to keep the vase or centre cup of the plant filled with lukewarm water to enable the absorption of nutrients it needs to thrive and bloom.
Bromeliads, much like other tropical houseplants, prefer bright indirect light. This means they should be exposed to light for 5-6 hours a day, preferably from the morning sun. A spot near an east-facing window or one with access to some filtered light is ideal. It is important to note that Yellow Bromeliads dislike the mid-day sun, and as a result get stressed when exposed to it. For the best results, keep them in an area with shade during the hottest hours of the day.
Yellow Bromeliads prefer temperatures between 55°F and 70°F (12°C-21°C) when they are actively growing. They can also tolerate extreme cold or hot temperatures, so long as it is only for a brief period of time. When exposed to temperatures below 45°F (7°C), Yellow Bromeliads tend to become more sensitive and unhealthy.
With humidity being so important to this tropical plant, indoor homes tend to not support their moisture needs. As a result, take extra steps to provide your Yellow Bromeliads with the proper humidity. You can do this by misting them on a regular basis or getting a humidifier to increase the room’s humidity level. Use caution to not over mist the plant as this may cause it to rot.
Bromeliads prefer a potting mix that drains quickly and is composed of perlite, bark, sphagnum moss, and peat moss. Prior to repotting your Bromeliad, make sure the soil is free of bacteria by disinfecting with a 10% bleach solution.
Light fertilization with an organic compost is recommended once or twice a year to help promote growth, flowering, and overall health of the plants. When fertilizing avoid using a high-nitrogen fertilizer as these can burn the roots of the plant or cause them to rot. When dosing the fertilizer, avoid adding too much as the plant will not be able to process so much of it. Use ¼ to 1/2 ratings of the recommended value on the fertilizer packet.
The two main pests that target Yellow Bromeliads are mealybugs, which are small white cottony puckered masses, and scale insects, which are generally oval-shaped and generally brown or gray. To remove them from your plant, you can spray a mist of neem oil or dish soap and water onto the affected plant. Additionally, you can also use rubbing alcohol. To prevent pests from affecting your plant in the future, make sure to inspect your plant regularly, preferably when you water it, and keep it clean of dead leaves and debris.
The best time to repot the Yellow Bromeliad is when it appears it may need it, although this generally should not be done more than once yearly. When repotting, you should use a pot with ample drainage and fill it with a fresh potting mix that is designed specifically for Bromeliads. This helps to keep the roots of the plant healthy and vibrant.
Bromeliads don’t need to be pruned or cut back unless you wish to shape it a certain way. If desired, the pruning should be done by using clean and sharp scissors, preventing the spread of any diseases or insects. As a result of the regular pruning, you may notice new growth and development.
Mulching helps to keep the soil consistently moist and helps in the efficient absorption of moisture. It is important to note that the mulch should be placed around the top of the soil and not directly on the rootball. You should use a coarse organic mulch, such as bark, coir, or straw.
Propagation of Yellow Bromeliads can be achieved through planting the axillary buds or pups in new, sterile soil. When you propagate, it is important to use sterile cutting tools such as sterilized pruning shears. The best time to propagate your Bromeliad is during late spring or summer. When the pup is placed into the soil, it is normal for it to take some time to root in the new environment and begin to produce new growth.
When your Yellow Bromeliad is growing and developing, you can use a stake to provide added support. This helps to hold the rosette in the upright position and prevent it from flopping over. If you choose to use a stake, make sure it is well-rooted and packed around the base of the plant.
Yellow Bromeliads do not usually require a rest period, although one may be necessary if the plant seems to be wilting or yellowing. During this period, the room temperature should be lowered, the amount of water should be reduced, and you should reduce the amount of light the plant receives. This rest period usually only lasts a few weeks.
The Yellow Bromeliad is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. But be mindful of the fact that they can still suffer irritation from coming into contact with the sap.
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