Neoregelia care guide
Neoregelia
Also known as: Blushing bromeliad, Fireball neoregelia
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Neoregelia
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 4 days
- Keep the central cup filled and refresh it often, as a guide; the roots take up little, so just moisten the mix lightly when it dries.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- Change the cup water about weekly and give the mix a little water a day or two after it dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 10 days
- In the cold months keep less water in the cup and give the mix only a little, about a few days after it dries.
Light and placement for Neoregelia
It wants more light than most tank bromeliads: generally sheer-curtain brightness up to gentle morning sun; too little light fades the red and variegation to green, and midsummer direct sun scorches the leaves.
Overwintering Neoregelia
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
Bring it indoors when nights fall below about 10°C; kept fairly dry it tolerates roughly 5°C, but a cup full of cold water damages it, so keep the cup low in winter.
Fertilizing and repotting Neoregelia
Fertilizer
Feed lightly, about once a month with very dilute liquid fertilizer from May to September; too much turns the leaves plain green and loosens the rosette.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Neoregelia
- Short of light the leaves grow long and narrow and lose their red.
- Cold water left in the cup over winter rots the center of the plant.
- Constantly wet mix rots the roots.
Tips for growing Neoregelia
- The root system is small, so use a small pot and an airy mix such as bark or sphagnum.
- Bright shade outdoors from spring to autumn brings out the best color.
- Flush the cup with fresh water now and then to keep it from getting slimy.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
