In the world of plants, there are many options for combinations and planting arrangements. When it comes to Bromeliad and Orchids, can these two be planted together?
The answer is Yes! But there are a few things to consider before doing so.
Bromeliad thrives in humid conditions and can actually help increase the humidity around Orchids. They also enjoy bright, indirect sunlight, which Orchids also require.
Bromeliad can be a great addition to an Orchid planting. Just be sure to do your research beforehand!
In this post, we will explore whether or not Bromeliad and Orchids can be planted together. We will also provide some tips on how to care for these plants if you do decide to combine them.
What Is the Relationship between Orchids and Bromeliads?
There are some characteristics that both bromeliads and orchids share. Being epiphytes, these plants can grow on other plants or things.
Additionally, both of them share icons of beauty and strength within their own cultures.
Commonalities
Orchids and bromeliads share a few key characteristics. Both plants are epiphytes, which means they grow on other plants or objects.
Epiphytes are able to get the water and nutrients they need from the air, rain, and debris around them.
This ability to grow without soil makes epiphytic plants well-suited to life in the tropics, where they can be found growing on tree branches, rocks, and even power lines.
In their respective cultures, bromeliads and orchids are both regarded as representations of beauty and power.
Orchids are thought to be the blossoms of love, wealth, and beauty. On the other hand, bromeliads are frequently regarded as symbols of tenacity and perseverance.
Differences
Though orchids and bromeliads have a few things in common, there are also some key differences between the two plant groups. The most obvious difference is in their appearance.
Orchids are often long and thin, with brightly-colored flowers. On the other hand, Bromeliads are typically shorter and have leaves that form a cup-like shape.
Orchids are also found in a wider range of habitats than bromeliads. Bromeliads are almost exclusively found in the Americas, while orchids can be found on every continent except Antarctica.
Uses
Orchids and bromeliads are both popular plants in the horticultural trade. Orchids are especially popular as houseplants, and many species can also be found in public parks and gardens.
Bromeliads, on the other hand, are mostly used as ornamental plants. They are often used as groundcover in tropical gardens or as accent plants in homes and offices.
Bromeliads and Orchids: The Perfect Planting Combination
A couple of the most well-liked varieties of indoor plants are bromeliads and orchids. They can survive in a variety of environments and are both simple to care for.
Because they grow particularly well in pots, bromeliads are an excellent companion for orchids.
Here are some tips for growing Bromeliads and Orchids together –
Choose the Right Container
The first step is to choose a container that is large enough to accommodate both plants. A good rule of thumb is to choose a pot that is twice the size of the Orchid’s root ball.
Bromeliads need good drainage, so make sure the pot has drainage holes. You can also add a layer of gravel to the bottom of the pot to help with drainage.
Orchids need a little more humidity than Bromeliads, so you might want to choose a pot that has a built-in reservoir. This will help to keep the Orchid’s roots moist.
Prepare the Pot
Once you have chosen the pot, you will need to prepare it before adding the plants.
Start by adding a layer of gravel to the bottom of the pot. This will help with drainage.
Next, add a layer of potting mix. Orchids need a well-drained mix that is high in organic matter. You can use a commercial Orchid mix, or you can make your own by mixing equal parts perlite, sphagnum moss, and bark.
Bromeliads need a less-draining mix, so you can use a commercial potting mix or make your own by mixing equal parts peat moss and perlite.
Planting the Bromeliad and Orchid
Once the pot is prepared, you can plant the Bromeliad and Orchid.
Start by removing the plant from its pot. Then, gently loosen the roots and spread them out in the pot.
Fill in around the roots with potting mix, and then water the plant well.
Bromeliad and Orchid need bright, indirect light, so choose a spot for the plant that receives bright light but is not in direct sunlight.
Caring for Bromeliads and Orchids
Bromeliads and orchids are two of the most popular houseplants. They are both beautiful and easy to care for, making them a great choice for anyone looking to add a little bit of color to their home.
Here are a few tips on how to care for these lovely plants –
Watering
Bromeliads and Orchids have different watering needs. Bromeliads should be watered about once a week or when the potting mix is dry to the touch. Allow the water to drain away freely.
Orchids should be watered about twice a week or when the potting mix is dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater Orchids, as this can cause the roots to rot.
Fertilizing
Different fertilizer requirements apply to bromeliads and orchids. During the growing season, fertilizer should be applied to bromeliads around once a month. Utilize a balanced fertilizer with little nitrogen.
Orchids should be fertilized about every two weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.
Repotting
Every few years, bromeliads and orchids need to be replanted. When bromeliads begin to outgrow their pot, they can be repotted.
Every one to two years, orchids need to be replanted. When repotting, use a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one.
This will help to prevent the roots from becoming pot-bound.
Can Bromeliad Plants Ever Be Harmed by Orchid?
No, bromeliad plants cannot be harmed by orchids. In fact, they can actually benefit from each other’s company! Here’s why –
Orchids are epiphytic plants, meaning they grow on other plants or objects for support. Bromeliads are also epiphytic, so they can provide a perfect perch for orchids to grow on.
This can help the orchids get the extra support they need, and the bromeliads will benefit from the extra moisture and nutrients they provide.
In addition, the two plants can help to protect each other from pests and diseases.
For example, the orchids’ strong roots can help to keep the bromeliad’s potting mix in place, and the bromeliad’s leaves can provide shelter for the orchids from the sun and wind.
So, as you can see, there are many benefits to growing bromeliads and orchids together.
Just be sure to give them both plenty of space to grow, and make sure the bromeliad is well-established before adding an orchid.
How Much Sun Does a Bromeliad Need?
A bromeliad is a tropical plant that is native to the Americas. Many people think of them as being low-light plants, but they actually need quite a bit of sun to thrive.
Here are some guidelines for how much sun your bromeliad needs –
- Full sun: 6 or more hours of direct sunlight per day
- Partial sun: 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day
- Filtered sun: 2-4 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some protection from the hot afternoon sun
- Low light: 1-2 hours of direct sunlight per day
Bromeliads can also tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from hot and humid to cool and dry. However, they will not tolerate frost.
If you live in an area with cold winters, it’s best to grow your bromeliad in a pot so you can bring it indoors when the temperature starts to drop.
Can Bromeliads and Orchids Be Planted Together?
When it comes to planting bromeliads and orchids together, some tips for planting bromeliads include selecting varieties that thrive in similar environmental conditions and providing adequate air circulation to prevent moisture buildup. It’s important to use a well-draining potting mix, as both plants dislike being waterlogged. In addition, ensure sufficient light and avoid overcrowding the plants to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
What Pests or Diseases Affect Bromeliads?
Bromeliads are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, which can cause serious problems if left untreated. Some of the most common problems include –
Mealybugs
Small, wingless insects known as MEALYBUGS use plant sap as their food. They can seriously harm bromeliads, causing mortality or reduced growth as well as yellowing of the leaves.
Although they might be challenging to manage, routine inspection and the removal of infected leaves can assist in keeping them under control.
Scale
The leaves and stems of plants are colonized by scale, which are tiny insects with a hard exterior. They consume the plant’s sap, which can result in discoloration and growth stunting when consumed.
Thrips
Insects with wings as little as Thrips eat bromeliad leaves. The leaf’s distortion and discoloration can harm the environment.
Fungal Diseases
Bromeliads may become infected with fungi, such as powdery mildew and root rot.
These ailments can finally destroy the plant by causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off.
Bacterial Diseases
Another potential issue for bromeliads is bacterial infections. Crown rot, the most prevalent bacterial disease of bromeliads, can make the plant’s leaves become brown and wilt.
They frequently die from crown rot. Therefore, it’s critical to take precautions to avoid it in the first place.
Final Say
In conclusion, bromeliad can be planted with orchids as they have a symbiotic relationship that helps both plants to grow and thrive.
They need a moderate amount of sun and are susceptible to pests and diseases, but with proper care, they can make a beautiful addition to any home or garden.
Resources:
- https://liveplantcollections.biology.duke.edu/featured-collections/epiphytes
- https://ucanr.edu/blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cfm?postnum=38920
- https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/bromeliads/
