However, they are very sensitive to fungicides and insecticides because they incorporate these substances very easily into their metabolism. Use a dilute solution of tobacco and water to do away with scales and plant lice. Remove pests with a toothbrush. Fight fungal infections using a soft sponge moistened with coconut soap dissolved in water. Never use copper-based fungicides such as bordeaux mixture because copper kills bromeliads.
Pest infestations occur mainly because of ecological disruption.
It should also be remembered that bromeliads are extremely sensitive to air pollution because they absorb the toxic elements that land in the tank water. They reach maturity and flower at ages that may differ by months or by dozens of years, depending on the species and habitat conditions, but always at a certain time of year. A plant often does not flower because of lack of light or due to some other environmental factor such as temperature. In contrast, a sudden shift of habitat may bring on flowering in an adult plant. These changes may represent a threat to the plant and consequently flower production is unleashed, with the ultimate aim of producing seeds and lateral shoots.