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Hanging Broom Plant:
A Creative Way to Add Greenery to Your Space

Updated: May 13, 2023

Adding greenery to your space is a great way to brighten up your living area, and the hanging broom plant is a creative way to do just that. This plant is perfect for those who want to add something different to their interior design, and it’s also easy to care for.

What is a Hanging Broom Plant?

A hanging broom plant, also known as the Spanish moss or Tillandsia usneoides, is an epiphytic plant that grows on trees and other surfaces. It’s native to Central and South America, where it thrives in humid climates. The plant has long, thin, and curly leaves that grow in a cascading manner, giving it a broom-like appearance.

The hanging broom plant doesn’t have any roots and absorbs moisture and nutrients from the air. It’s an air plant that can survive without soil, making it perfect for use in hanging baskets and terrariums.

How to Care for a Hanging Broom Plant?

The hanging broom plant is relatively easy to care for, making it a popular choice for indoor gardeners. Here are some tips on how to care for this unique plant:

Light

The hanging broom plant prefers bright but indirect sunlight. Place it near a window where it can get plenty of light without being exposed to direct sunlight. If you notice that the leaves are turning brown or curling up, it may be getting too much sun.

Water

The hanging broom plant doesn’t need soil, but it does require regular watering. Mist the leaves with water every two or three days, or soak the entire plant in water once a week. Make sure to shake off any excess water before placing it back in its container.

Humidity

The hanging broom plant thrives in humid environments, so make sure to keep it in a room with high humidity levels. You can increase humidity by misting the leaves regularly or placing a humidifier nearby.

Temperature

The hanging broom plant prefers warm temperatures between 60-80°F. It can survive in cooler temperatures but may not grow as quickly.

Creative Ways to Use a Hanging Broom Plant

There are many creative ways to incorporate a hanging broom plant into your interior design. Here are some ideas:

Hanging Baskets

Hanging baskets are perfect for displaying the cascading foliage of the hanging broom plant. Choose a basket with an open weave that allows air circulation and line it with moss or coconut fiber.

Terrariums

Terrariums are mini indoor gardens that can be used to showcase air plants like the hanging broom plant. Create a terrarium by filling a glass container with rocks or sand and adding the plant on top.

Wall Art

Create living wall art by mounting the hanging broom plant on a piece of driftwood or other decorative material. Hang it on the wall using hooks or wire for an eye-catching display.

Benefits of Having a Hanging Broom Plant

Aside from being visually appealing, having a hanging broom plant in your space has several benefits:

  • Air purification: The hanging broom plant helps filter out toxins from the air, improving indoor air quality.
  • Stress reduction: Research has shown that having plants in your environment can help reduce stress levels.
  • Improved mood: Plants have been shown to improve mood and increase productivity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should I water my hanging broom plant?

You should mist your hanging broom plant every two or three days or soak it in water once a week.

Can I keep my hanging broom plant outside?

The hanging broom plant is best suited for indoor environments with high humidity levels. It can survive outdoors but may not thrive as well.

Do I need soil for my hanging broom plant?

No, the hanging broom plant doesn’t need soil. It absorbs moisture and nutrients from the air.

How do I know if my hanging broom plant is getting enough light?

If the leaves are turning brown or curling up, your hanging broom plant may be getting too much sun. Move it to an area with less direct sunlight.

Can I propagate my hanging broom plant?

Yes, you can propagate your hanging broom plant by dividing clumps of the foliage and attaching them to new surfaces using wire or glue.

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