Find Your Ask the Expert: brown tips on top of bromeliad
I received a bromeliad at my grandparents’ recent death. It is green with pink/purple top. I was told to water it by filling the ‘wells’. I noticed yesterday that the tips of some of the pink/purple ‘leaves’ were turning brown. What do I do? Amanda
Flower Shop Network Plant Expert Reply:
I am assuming you are talking about the bloom of the bromeliad. These like all blooms will start to deteriorate as they age. Bromeliad blloms usually last for quite a while. However, yours may be under stress from all the moves (florist to funeral home to your home) and different caretakers.
For now I would just concentrate on taking care of it properly. A while back I wrote a post called How To Care For A Bromeliad it has alot of great information in it and discussion with other bromeliad owners as well. We, also, have a post Tropical Bromeliad Basic Houseplant Care that has helpful information.
I have been told to place water in the cups of the Bromeliad as well. However, it has been my experience that watering the soil is a more effective way of keeping the bromeliad happy and healthy. A humid environment is also crucial. I don’t mist my bromeliad directly, but I do place mine in a bathroom where the steam from the shower creates a humid environment.
