From our perspective, the central "vase" or tank is not a mere decorative feature; it is a sophisticated evolutionary adaptation for survival. We are epiphytes, meaning we naturally grow on other plants (like tree branches) rather than in the ground. In this elevated habitat, accessing soil moisture and nutrients is a constant challenge. Our tightly overlapping leaf bases form a natural urn to collect rainfall, dew, and falling organic debris like leaf litter and insect matter. This reservoir is our primary source of hydration and nourishment, making its proper maintenance fundamental to our health.
The most effective way to water us is to direct your attention to our central cup. You should slowly pour fresh, lukewarm water (preferably rainwater, distilled, or filtered water as we are sensitive to the salts and chemicals in tap water) directly into this vase until it is approximately one-quarter to one-half full. It is crucial to avoid using cold water, as it can shock our root system. This method replicates the natural rainfall we are adapted to, allowing us to absorb moisture and dissolved nutrients through specialized trichomes (tiny scale-like structures) on our leaf surfaces inside the tank.
Stagnant water is a significant threat to our well-being. In the wild, rainfall frequently flushes our tank, keeping the water oxygenated and preventing the proliferation of harmful bacteria and fungi that cause rot. In your home, without natural rainfall, you must perform this flushing. Every one to two weeks, you should gently tip our pot to completely empty the old water from the vase. Refill it immediately with fresh water. This simple act is akin to a fresh rain shower for us, preventing the water from becoming a toxic, anaerobic soup that will rot our heart and lead to our demise.
While the central vase is our main water source, our roots also play a role. They primarily serve to anchor us to a growing medium, but they do absorb some moisture and nutrients. You should keep the potting medium lightly moist but never soggy. Allow the top inch of the medium to dry out slightly before providing a light watering to the soil. Furthermore, we thrive in a humid environment. Misting our leaves occasionally, especially in dry indoor air, helps keep our trichomes functional and replicates the humid canopy air of our native habitat.
