First Things First

The next project in the garden was planting bromeliads someone in my outdoor club, Wilderness Trekkers, gave me. The first year they all bloomed in September. The second year most bloomed in September and a few in October. The third year, a few also bloomed in November. I am hoping that in coming years, more will bloom in October and November since the blooms only last about a week or two. Here are photos of the bromeliad garden in full bloom the first year.
These type of bromeliads are beautiful when they are in bloom, the only problem is the blooms last only two to three weeks. The parent plant does produce many more pups than other bromeliads whose blooms last much longer. I think I prefer blooms that last longer. However, these bromeliads make great plants to share with friends since they multiply so fast.

TIP: Bromeliads are epiphytes which is a plant that grows on another plant for support only. It is not parasitic meaning it does not derive nourishment from the host plant. Bromeliads derive nourishment from the air and hydrate by catching water in their centers. The roots that they possess are to help them attach themselves for support only. Soil is not needed; however, the plant will use it only to keep upright so it can catch water in its center.