Mounted plants bring natural elements indoors that feel both artistic and realistic. And it doesn't matter whether one prefers a fern, bromeliad, or hoya; all these plants tend to add something special to whatever space they occupy. But once you bring one home, you might wonder how you care for it.  The good news is that mounted plants don't require much at all, depending on the regimen you set.

The mounted plants are typically epiphytes, such as plants that grow naturally on trees and surfaces without the need for soil. They draw water and nutrients from the air, rain, and debris around them. This makes them ideal for creative indoor displays, being attached to wood, cork, or other materials. When done imitating its natural environment, this can help your mounted plant thrive.

Finding the Perfect Spot

Light plays a significant role in keeping your mounted plant healthy. Most mounted plants thrive in medium to bright indirect light. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, which can dry out their roots too quickly. A bright room with filtered light from a nearby window is ideal. If your space is dim, consider using a grow light to provide enough brightness for healthy growth.

Understanding the Differences in Light Needs of Various Plants

All mounted plants do not have equal amounts of light. Here are a few common ones and the type of lighting they like best:

  • Ferns like moderate to low indirect light, ideal for shady areas.
  • Hoyas are tough little cookies that like bright, indirect light but can take some direct sun.
  • Bromeliads like bright, indirect light, and direct sunlight when it is available.

Knowing what light your plant needs is the best way to locate it in a place where it will truly bloom.

Watering Right

Mount plants do not have potting soil to retain water; they must be saturated with water. To do this, follow these instructions:

1. Fill up a large bowl or your sink with room-temperature water

2. Submerse the mount with the wooden board entirely in the water for 15 to 30 minutes.

3. Remove it from the water and let it drip dry for a few hours before hanging it back up.

How Often to Water?

The frequency of watering depends on various factors, such as temperature, humidity, and light exposure. Here's a general guideline:

  • In warm months (spring/summer), water is used every 7–10 days.
  • In cool months (fall/winter), water is used every 10–14 days.

Check the moss at the roots. When it becomes dry and brittle, it's time to soak it.

When Does Your Plant Need Water

If the plant shows the following symptoms, it's time for a deep soak.

  • The moss at the roots feels dry and brittle.
  • Leaves become limp or wrinkled.
  • The plant appears dull or limp.

Feeding for Healthy Growth

Since these plants won't have soils to draw minerals from, there is a use for occasional feeding. Add a small amount of liquid fertilizer dilution to your soaking water every four weeks in the spring and summertime. Stick to fertilizers that will be balanced with epiphyte use to avoid any overfeeding.

Picking the Suitable Fertiliser

Look for fertilizers labeled for epiphytes, orchids, or air plants. These should already have the proper balance of nutrients and won't overwhelm your plant. A diluted mix is best; too much fertilizer can burn delicate roots.

When to Fertilize?

  • Active growing season (spring/summer) - every 4-6 weeks.
  • Cooler months - Reduce feeding to once every 8-10 weeks, then stop completely.

Keeping It in Shape

Mounted plants require very little maintenance, but some occasional maintenance will keep them looking their best:

  • If roots grow out of the moss, you can re-mount your plant onto a larger piece of wood.
  • Trim any dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking fresh.
  • If your plant grows long vines, feel free to prune and propagate them to create new mounts!

Re-mounting Your Plant

Eventually, your plant may outgrow the size of the mount. To move it to a bigger base, follow these steps:

  1. Carefully remove the plant and moss from the board.
  2. Choose a bigger piece of wood or cork for the new mount.
  3. Use fresh sphagnum moss to secure the roots in place.
  4. Attach the plant with wire or twine, guaranteeing it is stable but not too tight.
  5. Water nicely after re-mounting to help the plant adjust.

Avoiding Common Problems

Even with proper care, mounted plants sometimes have problems. Here's how to deal with them:

Drying Out Too Fast

Yellowing Leaves

Mold or Rot

  • Make sure your mount dries entirely between waterings.
  • Increase air circulation by placing the plant in a well-ventilated area.
  • Avoid overwatering, damp conditions can lead to root rot.

Extra Tips for Success

  • Increase humidity around your mounted plants by misting them lightly between soakings.
  • Avoid placing mounts near air vents, as constant airflow can dry them out too quickly.
  • If the moss on the mount becomes old, change it with new sphagnum moss to maintain a steady moisture level.
  • Heavy illumination is essential for plants, so you should periodically turn the plant to expose each side equally to the light.
  • Monitor your plant for spider mite infestations then remove them by wetting leaves gently.

Final Thoughts

A mounted plant can easily add greenery to your living spaces provided you give it minimal care for continued growth. People who have little plant experience should consider mounting plants because these living masterpieces bring nature into any environment. Your mounted plant will grow beautifully while you sit back to view the results.

How to Buy Plants From Eureka Farms?

Eureka Farms is a licensed nursery that has a vast collection of landscaping trees, fruit trees, palm trees, and the most extensive collection of houseplants. Whether you would like to improve the outdoor view of your curb or turn your porch into a haven by adding topiary trees and hedges, we have everything from that and much more. Our plants are guaranteed to be delivered in fresh conditions, straight to each doorstep nationwide. Our low-maintenance indoor plants improve air quality, lift your spirits, and bring a touch of nature to your home office. Happy planting!