Aerial Plants (Epiphytes)
Nature has created very unique plants: some are very tall, as if they wanted to reach the sky, others grow in shaded areas, where the sun’s rays barely reach, and there are others that lie at an intermediate point between them: they are aerial plants . Wherever a bird or the wind deposits the seed, it will germinate there, even in a hole in the branch of a tree.
They are so curious, that little by little we begin to see them more in the nurseries and gardening stores, since, in addition, they do not need much care to look beautiful.
Characteristics of the aerial plants
The aerial plants are epiphytes , that is to say, that grow on other plants, but without harming them in any way (something that parasitic plants do). It must also be said that within this group we find the litotite species, which are those that grow on rocks, roofs, etc. There are two types: green leaf varieties and gray leaf varieties. The former require a temperate climate and a shaded location in order to survive; On the other hand, the second ones live better exposed directly to the sun.
A curious fact is that these plants barely have roots , only those necessary to hold on to the place where they have germinated.
Care of the Aerial plants
The aerial plants are great for beginners, or for those who do not have much time to take care of the plants, since their leaves and stems are formed by small scales called trichomes , which are like complex hairs that are formed by the epidermis of the plants. leaves and they have a very short life. The cells that are dead in the trichomes, fill with air; In this way, they reflect light. But there is still more: trichomes absorb moisture, so you only have to spray it from time to time so it can blossom.
I am Don Burke, one of the authors at My Garden Guide. I am a horticulturist that cultivates, grows, and cares for plants, ranging from shrubs and fruits to flowers. I do it in my own garden and in my nursery. I show you how to take care of your garden and how to perform garden landscaping in an easy way, step by step.I am originally from Sydney and I wrote in local magazines. Later on, I have decided, more than two decades ago, to create my own blog. My area of specialization is related to orchid care, succulent care, and the study of the substrate and the soil. Therefore, you will see many articles dedicated to these disciplines. I also provide advice about how to improve the landscape design of your garden.
