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Pitcairnia ringens

Getting started -- Use small pots about 2-3 inches tall (5-7 cm) that have drainage holes.

This species prefers a well-draining soil that is high in organic matter.  A good mix is an equal mix of high-quality potting soil and perlite (or pumice rock).

Fill the pots with the soil mix, and water it so it is uniformly moist, but not soggy. Sprinkle 2 to 4 seeds on top, then sprinkle a very thin layer of soil over them - just enough to barely cover them.

Ensure that the surface soil doesn't dry out. A propagation dome or plastic bag may be used to maintain humidity, but leave it open slightly to allow a little fresh air in.  The ideal temperature for germination is about 65 to 75 degrees F (18-24°C).  If you use a heat mat, check the soil temperature to ensure that it doesn't overheat the roots.  Keep the pots in a bright spot, but out of direct sunlight.  You may use a fluorescent bulb kept a hand's length away.

The seeds should start germinating in 3 to 5 weeks, but allow up to 8 weeks for any slow ones to sprout.  Cooler temperatures may slow germination.

Once the seeds sprout, give bright shade, or filtered sunlight. Avoid giving prolonged, direct sunlight until the plants are a few months old.

Watering -- Once the plants are 2 months old, aim to keep the soil evenly moist most of the time (but not constantly soggy).  Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.  A loose soil mix is best, such as a half potting soil and half perlite or coarse sand.

Climate -- Pitcairnia ringens comes from about 3000 to 7000 feet elevation in Mexico, where temperatures are a bit cooler than the lowlands. I know it can handle temperatures in the mid-80s (30°C), but i have no information on how it will do in warmer conditions, so consider it experimental in warmer climates like Florida and Texas. The underground rhizomes can probably handle at least a few degrees of frost, although i recommend protecting the plant from all frost.

Lighting -- The plant has flowered both in full sun and in full shade, but it seems to be happiest with about 50% sun. Some afternoon shade might be needed in warmer areas.

Fertilizing --  This species has average fertilizer needs.  Small seedlings obviously need less food than larger ones, so be careful not to overfeed young plants.  If you used potting soil, your seedlings shouldn't need feeding the first 3 weeks, since most potting soils contain fertilizer.

Transplanting -- When your plants are 3 months old, you may gently transfer them to larger pots.  Give them shade for 2 weeks after transplanting.  A 1 gallon (4 liter) pot can hold 2 or 3 plants until they multiply and fill the pot.  Then you may divide them or move them into a wider pot.

Have fun growing them!

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