Dense, funnel-shaped rosettes of leaves that show red at the top give this rainforest plant an unusual appearance. The hybrids offered in this country enable us to cultivate them continuously in the house. But maintenance is not an easy task.
Guzmania needs high humidity
The location question
Even the best care cannot compensate for the disadvantages of a wrong location. In this regard, there is no need to try it out, this bromeliad species does not like changing locations. Check now whether these criteria are met:
- the place is light to semi-shady, without direct sun
- it is 20 to 22 °C warm all year round
- the humidity is at least 50%, preferably more
It quickly turns out that a bathroom with a window is the best room for this plant.
light in winter
The light requirement of this plant is also high in winter. It's worth not letting them starve for it during the dark time of the year. A special plant lamp can help. (21.99€) Under ideal circumstances, the Guzmania may even thank you with a flower.
pour
Casting is a delicate task. The soil of the Guzmania must never dry out completely, but it must also never be too wet. Otherwise, root rot is not long in coming.
- pour with decalcified water
- it should be at room temperature
- water the earth
- pour additional water into the leaf funnel
In summer, the water requirement of this plant is higher than in winter. Adjust your watering behavior accordingly. On dry days, the guzmania should be additionally sprayed with water to increase humidity.
tips
Place the Guzmania in a large planter that you have previously filled with gravel or larger stones. This allows you to pour water into the pot without causing waterlogging. The water evaporates, increasing the humidity.
Fertilize
Guzmania requires nutrient replenishment every two weeks from March to August. The fertilizer should be dosed rather weakly. It can be added to both pouring and spraying water.
multiply
Propagation is also a care step that should give us long-lasting pleasure in this plant. After all, after flowering, the guzmania dries up and dies. A new plant must then take its place. That's not difficult, because before it withers, it drives out new children in good time.
Propagate the Guzmania as follows:
- Separate the children from the dried mother plant
- plant in light, nutrient-rich soil
- Put a glass over it or cover it with foil
- keep warm and partially shaded
cutting and repotting
Cutting and repotting are not part of the program for this plant. Because each specimen usually only lives for two to three years. Individual brown, dried leaves are simply carefully plucked from the plant.