Vriesea care guide

(VREE-zha)

Bromeliads within the genus Vriesea are primarily known for their spectacular, long lasting inflorescence (flower spikes). Most Vreiseas are tank bromeliads with soft, shiny, yellow-green to dark leaves. Many have foliage that is red or strikingly marked with intricate patterns of bands or translucent windows. The flowers are mostly sword-shaped varying from single to many branches. The bracts are usually brilliant red or yellow and last several months, bicolor and multicolor spikes are common. Many hybrids (cultivars) have been developed, producing flowers of superior color and plants more adaptable to indoor culture.

Vrieseas are very closely related to plants within the genus Tillandsia. Just as some TIllandsias are green, tank forming plants, some vrieseas are gray-leafed, atmospheric epiphytes (air plants). Give the gray-leafed vrieseas the same care as epiphytic Tillandsia and green-leafed TIllandsia the same care as tank forming, green-leafed terrestrial bromeliads. Vrieseas are very prolific, producing many offsets (pups) during the flowering process. These pups may be separated when tey reach a size of about half that of the parent plant. Pot in loose potting mix that is both well draining and holds moisture: Do not use garden soil

Care: Vrieseas adapt to a wide range of light conditions, from fairly deep shade (Guamanian conditions) to bright filtered sunlight (Neoregelia conditions). At higher intensities, plants require high humidity to prevent burning. When growing outdoors 60-70% shade cloth is recommended. Feed your vriesea frequently, twice or more per month during the growing season (April - October). Vrieseas prefer mild temperatures, but can tolerate temperatures from just above freezing to 90 degrees for short periods of time. Use a complete, water soluble fertilizer (Epiphytes delight) or a non-bromeliad fertilizer at ¼ to ⅛ the recommended quantity; the fertilizer should be slightly acidic. Be sure to drench the foliage, central cup as well as the soil with nutrient rich water. Slow release fertilizers can be added to the potting soil in addition to or instead of foliar feeding. Tank type bromeliads can be fed exclusively through the roots. For more cultural information please refer to Bromeliads: A Cultural Manual.