Greetings. I am new to bromeliads and recently acquired what I think is an aechmea fendleri. I was planning on leaving the plant in its pot and sinking the pot into a hole in my landscaping. The spot I'm considering is shade to part sun, depending on the time of year. Since I live in South Florida, zone 10a(I think, 33414 zip), I do get a fairly large amount of rainfall in the summer months. Will this plant do well under these conditions? The plant already has a flower spike growing out of it so I'm guessing it will start its decline after its done, but I'm hoping to harvest seeds or replant its pups once they form. I'm sure I will have more questions, and thank you all in advance for your help!
Aechmea Fendleri
The conformation of the leaves will give you a good indication if the plant is getting enough sun. Long skinny leaves means they want more. Obviously burning (first indicated by a lightening area on a horizontal part of the leaf) means too much. Most Bromeliads grow in trees, so naturally they like part shade. Harvest the pups by cutting them off close to the mother plant when they are 1/3 to 1/2 size. Try to cut on a woody piece of he pup (not always possible). Some people like to grow clumps - it's a personal choice. More cultural info at www.bsi.org.
Dave
Thanks for the information Dave. I left it in the pot and planted the pot, hidden by mulch (but not smothering the base), in the ground in a part-sun spot. It's doing fine so far. I can't wait for the pups and will remove them as you instructed. Thanks again!