Troubleshooting
Thin-Spiked Air Plant problems — and how to fix them
Thin-Spiked Air Plant (Tillandsia tenuispica) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Crown rot
Standing water trapped at the base of the rosette causes fungal rot; always shake the plant dry and rest it inverted after watering, and ensure good airflow around the plant.
Browning leaf tips
Most often caused by low humidity, underwatering, or fluoride in tap water; switch to rainwater or filtered water and increase watering frequency slightly.
Prevent thin-spiked air plant problems before they start
Most thin-spiked air plant issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Thin-Spiked Air Plant problems — FAQ
Why is my thin-spiked air plant crown rot?
Standing water trapped at the base of the rosette causes fungal rot; always shake the plant dry and rest it inverted after watering, and ensure good airflow around the plant.
Why is my thin-spiked air plant browning leaf tips?
Most often caused by low humidity, underwatering, or fluoride in tap water; switch to rainwater or filtered water and increase watering frequency slightly.