1. Glass Terrariums
Glass terrariums are perhaps the first thing that one considers when one visualizes how they will display their new air plants. They are simple, easy to install, and the contents of the terrarium can be easily changed out for a new look or season. There are 2 main types of glass available, either those that are suspended in air as hanging terrariums or those that have a flat bottom for placement as accent pieces on tables and shelves. Among these two types, the sizes and design possibilities are endless. Some choose to keep their glass terrariums relatively simple, with the glass’s only resident being an air plant. Others are inspired by an air plant’s natural surroundings, adding stones, moss, tree bark, or sand. On our website you are able to purchase beautiful teardrop, globe, and bubble bowl glass terrariums.
2. Natural Containers
Another option for displaying air plants are natural containers. What do I mean by that? There are plenty of natural curiosities that are the perfect size to hold an air plant. Many of the most common are from the ocean. Various seashells and urchins (which are already cute to look at) have small holes that easily fit an air plant. Urchins and air plants making the cutest pairing. Larger species display nicely with conch shells. If you are not going for the beach look, seed pod containers and small wood pots offer cozy homes for Tillandsia. Containers of all sorts can be painted to match your decor.
3. Drift, Grapevine, & Mopani Wood
In their natural habitat, air plants are often seen attaching themselves to the sides of trees, stones, and along cliffs. Utilizing different wood media, you are able to easily and beautifully recreate these natural displays. Perhaps you collected a beautiful piece of driftwood along on the coast years ago. You could easily freshen it up with air plants. “Domestic” air plants will need a little help attaching themselves to the wood. The most common type of “Tilly” glue sold is formula E-6000 brand which is waterproof and most importantly safe for the air plants. Mopani wood and Grapevine wood are two special type of very hard wood used in home decor. Although getting rare and harder to find, they are worth purchasing if you really want to make a statement.
4. Cork Bark
Cork bark is one my favorite ways to display air plants. First off, it is a renewable medium. Cork trees, which are the same ones used to make corkboard and wine corks (at least the old fashioned kind) regenerate their bark after it is stripped from the tree. This is all done without harming the plant. Crops can be harvested every few years. Cork bark is easily cut to size for flat wall hangings or table displays.
5. Vertical Gardens
Vertical gardens are booming (blooming?) and for good reason. They are stunning creations. But, with air plants, vertical garden displays do not have to be complicated. Some air plant vertical gardens are a simply wire mesh with air plants pushed into the openings. Many designs use antique picture frames or re-purposed wood framing. They are highly customizable when it comes to size, desired color scheme, and texture.