I received a small brom as a gift last spring. It was in bloom and as I didn't know exactly which kind it was, I went by "general" info and it did pretty well and the bloom lasted a long time.
Here's my question, how long does a bloom normally last ...and...how often do they bloom? If a photo would help, I can provide one.
As I said, I have not idea which variety it is, but it's in a 4" pot is about 7" in circumference, and the blossom was red.
Many thanks!
Deb
Gift plant total newbie question
The one in this photo closely resembles the one I have.
It's a Guzmania - probably one of many hundreds of hybrids with G. lingulata in it's parentage.
Dave
(didn't see your other questions...) Guzmania "blooms" last a very long time - this is why you see them in Airports and Hotel lobbies. They like it shady and moist (i.e humid). Go collect some rainwater (or clean snow melt) and keep the center of the plant moist. You can water the pot whenever the soil gets dry. If the plant is packed with anything around its base (ironically lots of places use Spanish Moss, a.k.a. Tillandsia usenoides) remove it so air can get to the base of the plant. In nature these plants are epiphytes that grow up in trees. They adapt well to pot culture but it's possible to rot them at the base it it stays too wet with no air movement.
This message was edited Feb 13, 2010 10:33 AM
Dave, I am just now seeing your reply (been out of town alot!), but thank you so much for the very helpful info. I need to check the base to see if it's too compacted. Going to do that now.
Much appreciated!