A treehouse filled with exotic plants and trees sounds like a tropical paradise hidden high up in the canopy. As fun as it may seem, caring for exotic plants can be quite challenging. From providing the right growing conditions to dealing with pests and diseases, it takes knowledge, patience, and commitment to help these beauties thrive.
This article will explore some of the most popular exotic plants and trees that can grow well in a treehouse environment. It will also offer tips on how to best care for them and bring out their stunning colors, shapes, and textures.
Ideal Exotic Plants for a Treehouse
When choosing plants for a treehouse, focus on varieties that do well in containers, have striking foliage, and those that can handle being moved around if needed. Some great options include:
Bromeliads
With their vibrant flower spikes and striped leaves, bromeliads add a punch of color and texture. Many bromeliads are epiphytic, meaning they grow on other plants and trees in the wild, so they are perfectly adapted to life in a treehouse. Popular picks are the flaming sword bromeliad, scarlet star bromeliad, and earth star bromeliad.
Orchids
From elegant moth orchids to the bizarre monkey face orchid, these exotic beauties thrive with the right care. Many orchid varieties grow as epiphytes in their native tropical habitats, so a treehouse is an ideal environment. Some great orchids for beginners are phalaenopsis, dendrobiums, and oncidiums.
Tillandsias
Commonly known as air plants, tillandsias make a fun and unique addition to a treehouse. They absorb water and nutrients through their leaves so they don’t even need soil. Simply mount them on pieces of wood or include them in hanging glass terrariums. Some popular air plants are the curly slim, blushing bride, and spiky purple air plants.
Ferns
With their delicate fronds and tropical vibe, ferns are perfect for a treehouse hideaway. Some easy-to-grow varieties that do well in low light are maidenhair ferns, rabbit foot ferns, and Boston ferns. Just be sure to provide the right amount of humidity.
Caring for Exotic Plants
To help exotic plants thrive, there are some key things to provide:
Bright Light
Most exotic varieties thrive in bright, filtered light similar to what they would receive in a rainforest canopy. East or west-facing windows are ideal. Supplement with grow lights if needed.
Consistent Humidity & Moisture
Warm, humid conditions are a must for most exotic plants. Group plants together, use pebble trays, and mist regularly to boost moisture levels. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Good Air Circulation
Stagnant air can lead to fungal and bacterial diseases. Use fans to keep air moving. Make sure plants aren’t crowded.
Appropriate Potting Mix
Use a porous, peat-based potting mix made for orchids and epiphytes. Add perlite or bark to improve drainage and aeration.
Proper Fertilizer
Feed plants with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Fertilize monthly in the growing season.
Unique Exotic Trees
Along with stunning tropical plants, a treehouse also needs some interesting exotic trees and vines to complete the look. Some eye-catching options include:
Monstera Deliciosa
Known for its quirky natural holes and splits, the Monstera or “Swiss cheese plant” makes a bold statement. It grows quickly when given a mossy pole or tree to climb.
Ficus Trees
Fig trees like the weeping fig, rubber plant, and Fiddle leaf fig have lush green leaves in interesting shapes. They can be grown in containers and pruned to keep them small.
Croton
A close relative of the poinsettia, crotons have vivid yellow, orange, and red foliage. They thrive in bright light and warm temperatures in a treehouse environment.
Banyan Tree
An iconic sight in tropical areas, the banyan tree has twisting aerial roots that hang down like vines. Dwarf varieties can grow well in containers.
Dealing With Pests & Diseases
Exotic plants can be magnets for pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Catch infestations early by regularly inspecting plants. Wipe pests away with a cotton ball dipped in alcohol or insecticidal soap. Maintaining good growing conditions can help prevent many diseases.
Filling a treehouse with exotic plants and trees creates a whimsical indoor garden. With the right mix of air plants, orchids, tropical foliage, and vines, you can bring the vibrant colors and textures of the rainforest right to your home. Just be prepared to provide the warm, humid conditions these beauties need to stay healthy and happy in their new arboreal habitat.
