Do Air Plants Have Roots? An Explanation of Tillandsia Roots

Air plants, also known as tillandsias, are a popular and uniquely designed houseplant. With their ability to grow without soil, mounting air plants on walls, hanging them in glass globes, or nestling them into seashells are just a few ways these plants are displayed. But with their lack of soil, you may be wondering, do air plants have roots? The short answer is yes, air plants do grow roots. But unlike traditional plants, air plant roots serve a different purpose.

Why Do Air Plants Have Roots?

Most plants grow roots for absorbing water and nutrients. Their root system spreads out underground acting as the plant’s plumbing and food source Air plants on the other hand absorb water and nutrients through their leaves Tiny scales on the leaves called trichomes trap moisture from the air and absorb nutrients when water runs over them.

So if air plants don’t need roots for nourishment, why do they grow them? Air plants grow roots primarily for anchoring themselves In their natural habitat, air plants attach to trees, rocks, and other surfaces The roots act like glue to hold the plant in place. Without roots securing them, air plants would get knocked down during rain and wind storms.

Do Air Plants Need Their Roots?

When growing as a houseplant, air plant roots are not essential for the plant’s survival. In fact, most air plants arrive rootless. Suppliers trim off the roots before shipping to give the plants a clean cut look. Once in your care, roots will start to grow back over time. But this new root growth can be trimmed if desired without harming the plant.

Some air plant owners like the natural look of roots and choose to keep them. If you want your air plants root-free, use small, sharp scissors to snip the roots away. Avoid cutting too close to the base or you may damage the plant. It’s generally recommended to give your air plants a quick root trim when you are watering or misting them.

Signs Your Air Plant is Growing Roots

After a few weeks or months of growth, you will start to notice slender, wispy roots emerging from the base of your air plants. The speed at which roots grow back depends on the specific air plant variety. Some species are quick root producers while others grow them at a slower pace.

In general, young air plants and air plants that have been recently trimmed will generate new root growth the fastest. Mature plants that are firmly anchored likely won’t push out as many new roots.

You may also spot new roots growing from air plant offsets and pups. These baby air plants form when a mature plant flowers and produces new plants.

Caring for Air Plants With Roots

Caring for your air plants is the same whether they have roots or not. Soak or mist your air plants when the leaves start to curl or take on a dull, lifeless color. Add a fertilizer solution occasionally for an extra nutritional boost. And watch for common air plant issues like rot, pests, and sunburn.

One extra consideration with roots is avoiding standing water in containers. Roots tend to hold onto moisture. If water pools at the base for too long, soft rot can set in. Let plants drain fully after watering and dump out old water from cache pots.

You can also add additional ventilation by sitting the plants on cedar wood rounds or a wire plant stand. And trim back roots around the base to allow airflow.

Should You Remove Air Plant Roots When Repotting?

Repotting air plants simply involves moving them to a new mount or display. You don’t need to refresh their soil or trim roots like you would with a regular houseplant. But you may want to give them a quick root grooming when switching homes.

Cleaning up straggly old roots helps give your air plant a fresh look in its new container. And removing excess roots prevents trapped moisture that can lead to rot. Always sterilize your trimming tool in rubbing alcohol before each snip.

Achieving the Look You Want

When it comes to air plant roots, the decision comes down to personal preference on appearance. If you like the natural, untamed look, let those roots grow out. The flowing roots can complement wild, boho-style displays.

For modern, clean-lined designs, trimmed roots help streamline the look. Check roots every couple weeks when watering. And regularly groom to keep them from taking over.

Air Plant Roots are Part of Their Natural Growth

While air plant roots look different than traditional plants, they serve an important natural purpose. If you decide to remove them, have a gentle hand. And avoid over-trimming to prevent damage to the plant. A few snips here and there will keep your air plants looking tidy without interrupting their growth.