Cryptanthus 6"

Light
- Cryptanthus thrive in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch, while too little light can make the colors fade. Varieties with more vibrant colors (such as pink or red) tend to need more light than green varieties.

Watering
- Keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Unlike other bromeliads, Cryptanthus do not hold water in a central cup, so they need to be watered at the soil level.
- Be careful not to let the plant sit in standing water to prevent root rot.

Humidity
- Cryptanthus prefer high humidity, as they are native to tropical environments. Misting the plant regularly or placing it on a humidity tray can help. They do well in kitchens and bathrooms where the humidity is naturally higher.

Temperature
- They thrive in temperatures between 60-80°F. Avoid cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F, which can cause the plant stress.

Soil
- Use a well-draining, airy potting mix. A bromeliad or orchid mix works well, but you can also create your own by mixing regular potting soil with materials like perlite, sand, and peat moss to improve drainage.

Fertilizing
- During the growing season (spring through summer), feed your Cryptanthus with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Use a fertilizer designed for bromeliads for the best results. Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows.

Repotting
- Cryptanthus are slow growers and usually don’t need frequent repotting. Repot only when the plant has outgrown its pot, generally every 2-3 years. Spring is the best time to repot.

Propagation
- Cryptanthus produce pups (baby plants) around the base of the mother plant after it matures and flowers. Once the pups are large enough (about 1/3 the size of the parent), they can be separated and repotted on their own.

Pests
- While Cryptanthus are generally pest-resistant, you may encounter common houseplant pests like mealybugs or scale. If you notice pests, remove them by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or using insecticidal soap.