DISEASES & PESTS

   Most Bromeliads, when compared to other ornamental plants, in greenhouses or in landscaping,  are surprisingly resistant. Usually they survive healthfully some deficiency of water or humidity, in case we have forgotten them for some time. Certainly, that’s why they are so popular. Furthermore, a lot of species that are primarily epiphytes in the wild may develop perfectly well when planted directly in the soil. The number of diseases and pests that may affect the bromeliads is also moderate and they can be maintained perfectly under control with the applying of some mild commercial biocid.
   However some recommendations regarding an adequate handling of the bromeliads in cultivation, should be taken into account:

   (1) Never forget that Bromeliads use their roots essentially to fasten the plant to the substrate, i.g., the rind of trees or shrubs, with little or no assimilation of water or nutritious material this way. Absorption is a task for the specialized scales on the leaves. Remember that Bromeliads hate wet feet. So, avoid over-watering and a heavy argillaceous or soggy potting mix.  Occasionally we should let the roots and the mix  dry up completely. This is the most efficient way to prevent the perishing of the plant by action of fungi destroying the root systemi.

   (2) From now on I’ll add to this site some remarks related to the topic "diseases and pests", including graphic material. For the present I must notify about a new pest affecting bromeliads in southern Brazil. Click on the insect species' name to get to the page with more information about Vettius lucretius, a parasitic Lepidoptera-Hesperiidae.

   (3) The great majority of bromeliads tolerate quite well some extreme temperatures, since briefly and maintained between 5 and 35 degrees Celsius. Frost is particularly harmful for tropical and subtropical species. See the characteristic effect of the excessive cold on bromeliad leaves on the photos of Neoregelia johannis (blotched and burned epidermis) and Portea petropolitana (withered, wrapped up blades).