Introduction to Epiphytes for San Diego gardens

Epiphytic plants are plants that require no soil, or very little soil for their roots to grow and be healthy.

Epiphytes are also called air plants in general. The best known air plant family are called tillandsias. Epiphytes do quite well in San Diego, and require very low maintenance, epiphytes do need water often. Some plants that grow epiphytically are tillandsias, orchids, and bromeliads. There are members of each of these families that do better terrestrially (in the ground).

Epiphytic plantings can be very easy to begin, but can perish quickly. Many of these plants are from the tropics and appreciate the high heat of our desert climate in San Diego.

Epiphyte growths can be some of the most impressive types of plants for aesthetics besides large trees. I would encourage every gardener to try to grow them once you are confident in your gardening ability.

To maximize success in air plants, use a medium of moss and have a drip system or other automatic water delivery system. Put them in sheltered areas away from direct sun and harsh winds. Don't let the medium get dried out in hot seasons, during rain seasons very little care is needed. Use smaller sized plants so they don't fall out of their perch, and use a restraint of some type to hold them in place.

Most epiphytes multiply quickly like succulents do, and can be divided regularly to create more individuals. Know the grower who produces your epiphytes well, this is a collaboration that can be done poorly, easily.

Find a good amount of these types of plants at a locally owned nursery, Walter Anderson's.