Horticultural Society gains insight on bromeliads

The Benoni Horticultural Society held a talk on bromeliads on Saturday (June 16), at the Four Seasons Nursery, hosted by Charles Barrett, owner of Eastern Plant Collectors, in Rynfield.

Barrett explained that bromeliads are a varied group of plants which can adapt to varying climates.

“Bromeliads have colourful, long lasting, inflorescences (flowers) and some have coloured foliage,” said Barrett.

“Most varieties of bromeliad don’t need soil to grow; their roots’ main function is to cling to tree bark or rocks.”

Barrett said they grip the tree’s bark but they are not parasites, so growing bromeliads around trees shouldn’t harm a tree.

“The leaf colour of bromeliads ranges from maroon to shades of green and some varieties may have red and white leaves, he said.

The Rynfield resident said bromeliads are incredibly resilient plants, but overwatering is one of the main ways to keep your plant from thriving.

“They enjoy a good air movement; however they should be kept away from copper as this is toxic to the plant.”

Also read: Horticultural Society educated on herbs

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