19 Disadvantages of Air Plants You Should Know About

Air plants, or Tillandsias, have become quite the rage among plant lovers. Their unique ability to grow without soil and their quirky appearance make them a popular choice for indoor décor. However, like all things in life, they come with their own set of challenges. Knowing these can help you make an informed decision about whether they're the right fit for your home.

Today, we're going to chat about 19 potential downsides of air plants. This isn't to scare you off, but rather to arm you with knowledge so you can decide if these little green wonders are worth the effort. Ready? Let's get started!

1. Not as Low-Maintenance as Advertised

Air plants often get tagged as the ultimate low-maintenance plant, but that's not entirely true. While they don't need soil, they do require regular attention. They need to be soaked in water for about 20-30 minutes every week and misted in between, especially if your home is dry. Missing these waterings can lead to dehydration, which is one of the most common reasons air plants die.

They also need bright, indirect light. A spot by a window is ideal, but too much direct sun can scorch them. So, while they’re not super high maintenance, they do require a specific routine, which can be a bit much for folks hoping for a set-it-and-forget-it plant.

2. Sensitivity to Water Quality

Air plants are surprisingly picky about their water. They prefer rainwater or filtered water because tap water often contains chlorine and other chemicals that can be harmful over time. If you're using tap water, let it sit out for 24 hours before using it to water your air plants. This allows some of the chlorine to evaporate, but it still might not be the best option.

If you’ve got a bunch of them, investing in a rainwater collection system or a water filter could be a good idea. It's a bit of an extra step, and if you're not prepared for it, your air plants might show their displeasure through browning leaf tips or poor growth.

3. Vulnerability to Rot

One of the sneaky issues with air plants is their susceptibility to rot. Since they don't grow in soil, it might seem like overwatering wouldn’t be a problem, but it certainly can be. If they’re not allowed to dry properly after soaking, water can collect at their base, leading to rot. This is especially tricky because the signs aren’t always obvious until it’s too late.

To avoid this, always ensure your air plants dry thoroughly before placing them back in their display spot. Shaking off excess water and placing them upside down on a towel can help. It’s a bit of a balancing act, and forgetting can lead to sad, soggy plants.

4. Limited Display Options

At first glance, air plants seem super versatile for display purposes. You can hang them, stick them in terrariums, or even glue them onto driftwood. But, because they need air circulation and regular watering, your options can become limited. Closed terrariums, for example, aren't ideal as they trap moisture and can lead to rot.

They also shouldn’t be glued down permanently because you'll need to remove them for soaking. So, while they can be displayed creatively, you must ensure they’re accessible for care. This might mean rethinking that Pinterest-perfect setup you had in mind.

5. Temperature Sensitivity

Air plants are native to warm, humid environments, so they're not fans of the cold. They prefer temperatures between 50°F and 90°F. Anything below or above that can stress them out. If you live in an area with drastic temperature changes, you might need to move them around your house to find a suitable spot.

They also don't like drafts. So, placing them near a frequently opened window or in front of an air vent isn't ideal. Finding the right spot can take some trial and error, and this can be frustrating if you're trying to keep them healthy and happy.

6. Short Lifespan

Air plants live for about 2 to 5 years, which is relatively short compared to other houseplants. After they bloom, they will eventually die. They do produce offsets, or "pups," which can grow into new plants, but this requires some patience and care.

The blooming is a one-time event in the life of an air plant, and while it’s beautiful, it marks the beginning of the end for that particular plant. This cycle can be disappointing for those hoping for a long-lived plant companion.

7. Limited Growth

Air plants don't grow very large, so if you're looking for a plant that will fill a space, these aren't the ones. They typically only grow a few inches in size. While this makes them great for small spaces or as part of a larger display, it can be a letdown if you're expecting a more substantial plant presence.

They do grow slowly, so any changes in size will take time. If patience isn't your strong suit, the slow growth might feel more like a disadvantage than a feature.

8. Pest Problems

Air plants aren’t immune to pests. While they don’t have the usual soil-borne pest issues, they can still attract insects like mealybugs and scale. These pests can be tricky to spot and even trickier to eliminate without harming the plant.

Regular inspection and prompt action are necessary to keep pests at bay. This could mean using gentle insecticidal soaps or manually removing pests with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. It’s another layer of care that might surprise those expecting a fuss-free plant.

9. Seasonal Adjustments

Like many plants, air plants have different needs depending on the season. In the summer, they might need more frequent watering due to higher temperatures and increased sunlight. In the winter, they require less water and might need more light if placed in a dimmer area.

These seasonal adjustments require you to pay closer attention to your plants and be ready to tweak your care routine as needed. It’s a bit of extra work, and if you’re not prepared, it can lead to unhappy plants.

10. Limited Availability of Varieties

While there are hundreds of species of air plants, finding a wide variety at your local plant shop might be challenging. Most stores carry only the most common types, which can limit your options if you're looking for something unique.

For those who enjoy collecting different plant varieties, this can be a bit of a letdown. You might need to seek out specialty shops or online stores to find rarer air plants, which can also be more expensive.

11. Lack of Nutrients

Without soil, air plants rely on nutrients from water and the occasional foliar feed. This means they need a little extra care in terms of fertilization. Using a diluted bromeliad fertilizer or a specific air plant fertilizer every month can help keep them healthy.

If you neglect this step, your plants might not thrive as they should. It's an additional task that can be easy to forget, especially if you're juggling care for multiple plants.

12. Fragility

Air plants might look tough, but they’re actually quite delicate. Their leaves can easily break if handled too roughly, and they can be damaged by overwatering or exposure to harsh conditions. This fragility means you need to be careful when handling them or moving them around.

For homes with pets or young children, this can be particularly challenging. You’ll need to find a safe spot where they’re out of reach but still receiving the care they need.

13. Slow Recovery from Stress

If an air plant becomes stressed, whether from improper watering or light, it can take a while to bounce back. Unlike some hardier plants that quickly recover, air plants need time and consistent care to regain their health.

This slow recovery can be frustrating, especially if you've corrected the issue and expected a quick improvement. It requires patience and a willingness to stick with a care routine until they start to show signs of recovery.

14. Limited Commercial Use

Unlike some plants that can be used for food, medicine, or other purposes, air plants are primarily decorative. This limitation might not be a downside for everyone, but for those who enjoy a plant that serves more than an aesthetic purpose, it can be a bit disappointing.

They don't provide the same versatility as herbs or fruit-bearing plants, so if you're looking for something with multiple uses, air plants might not satisfy that desire.

15. Difficulty in Propagation

While air plants do produce pups, propagating them can be a slow and uncertain process. The pups take a while to mature and need careful attention to separate them from the mother plant without damage.

If you're someone who enjoys propagating plants to share with friends or expand your collection, the slow and delicate nature of air plant propagation might not be as rewarding as more straightforward plants.

16. Not Pet Friendly

While not toxic, air plants aren't particularly pet-friendly either. Their small size and delicate nature mean they can easily be damaged by curious pets. Plus, if ingested, they can cause digestive discomfort for cats and dogs.

For pet owners, this means finding a safe place for air plants where pets can't reach them, which can be a challenge depending on your home’s layout.

17. Limited Indoor Air Purification

While plants are often touted for their air-purifying abilities, air plants don't quite measure up to larger, soil-based houseplants in this regard. Their size and lack of soil limit their ability to significantly improve air quality indoors.

If you're looking to plants for their air-purifying benefits, air plants might not fulfill that role as effectively as others like snake plants or pothos.

18. Cost

Air plants can be surprisingly pricey, especially when you're looking for rare varieties. While one or two might not break the bank, building a collection can add up quickly. This cost can be a deterrent for those on a budget or those who like to have multiple plants in their home.

Additionally, if you're not successful in keeping them alive, the cost of replacing them can become a financial burden over time.

19. Not Ideal for Beginners

Despite their trendy appeal, air plants might not be the best choice for beginners. Their watering needs, sensitivity to light and temperature, and potential for pests make them a bit more challenging than some other beginner-friendly plants.

If you're new to plant care, starting with something a bit more forgiving might be a better option. Once you've got the hang of basic plant care, you can always give air plants a try!

Final Thoughts

There's no denying that air plants have their charm, but they're not without their quirks and challenges. From watering routines to temperature sensitivity, these unique plants require a bit more attention than you might first expect. However, for those willing to put in the effort, they can be a delightful addition to your indoor garden.

At Cafe Planta, we understand the joys and challenges that come with plant care. We're here to help you navigate your plant journey with a variety of houseplants, care accessories, and even plant-themed apparel. If you have any questions or need advice, feel free to email us or send a DM on Instagram. We're excited to help you create a thriving plant collection in your home!