Live to Plant

Where to Buy Bromeliad Plant:
Finding the Best Source

Updated: April 3, 2023

Bromeliads are tropical plants that come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. They are known for their stunning blooms and unique foliage, making them a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardens alike. If you’re looking to add a bromeliad plant to your collection, it’s important to find a reputable source that offers healthy, high-quality plants. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to buy bromeliad plants and what to look for when choosing a supplier.

Local Garden Centers and Nurseries

One of the easiest ways to buy a bromeliad plant is by visiting your local garden center or nursery. These stores often carry a wide variety of plants, including bromeliads, and their staff can provide expert advice on caring for your new plant. When shopping for bromeliads at a garden center or nursery, be sure to look for plants that are healthy and free from pests or disease. Inspect the leaves and roots carefully before making your purchase.

Online Retailers

Another option for buying bromeliad plants is through online retailers. There are many websites that specialize in selling plants online, and some even offer rare or hard-to-find varieties of bromeliads. When shopping online, be sure to read reviews from other customers to ensure that the retailer has a good reputation. You may also want to consider purchasing from a retailer that offers a guarantee on their plants in case they arrive damaged or with issues.

Specialty Bromeliad Nurseries

For the most comprehensive selection of bromeliad plants, consider shopping at a specialty nursery that specializes in these unique tropical plants. These nurseries typically offer a wider variety of bromeliads than traditional garden centers or nurseries, and their staff is usually knowledgeable about caring for these plants. Some specialty nurseries may also offer classes or workshops on bromeliad care and cultivation.

Bromeliad Society Sales

Many cities have local chapters of the Bromeliad Society International, which hold regular plant sales and swaps for members. If you’re interested in buying bromeliads, joining your local Bromeliad Society can be a great way to meet other enthusiasts and learn more about these fascinating plants. At society sales events, you can often find rare and unusual varieties of bromeliads that may be hard to find elsewhere.

What to Look for When Buying Bromeliads

When shopping for bromeliad plants, there are several factors to consider in order to ensure that you’re getting a healthy plant:

  • Check the leaves: Look for leaves that are firm and evenly colored without any spots or discoloration.
  • Check the roots: The roots should be white or light-colored and plump.
  • Check for pests: Inspect the plant carefully for any signs of pests such as spider mites or mealybugs.
  • Check the potting mix: The soil should be well-draining and not overly wet.

By taking these factors into account when shopping for bromeliads, you can ensure that you’re bringing home a healthy plant that will thrive in your home or garden.

FAQ

Q: Are bromeliads difficult to care for?

A: Bromeliads are generally easy to care for as long as their basic needs are met. They require bright but indirect light, moderate humidity, and well-draining soil.

Q: How often should I water my bromeliad?

A: Bromeliads should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. Depending on the environment they’re growing in, this could be once per week or less.

Q: Do I need special equipment to grow bromeliads?

A: While some varieties of bromeliads require specialized care, most can be grown with basic gardening equipment such as pots, soil, and fertilizer.

Q: Can I grow bromeliads indoors?

A: Yes! Many varieties of bromeliads make excellent indoor plants as long as they receive enough bright but indirect light.

Q: How do I propagate my bromeliad?

A: Bromeliads can be propagated by removing offsets (or “pups”) that grow at the base of the mother plant. These pups can be potted up individually once they have grown large enough.