Bromeliad Help

[Joseph]

I have the Dyckia brevifola variety or Pinnaple Dyckia. When I bought it a few years ago the upper portion was a rich red color. After having it in it's new environment for a while the red went away and now the plant is all green.

I figured it was sort of like leaf drop and the plant was just adjusting but it's been over a year.

The plant is really healthy. I beleive It is in proper growing conditions, medium light, medium/high humidity, I Keep its "vase" full of water.

It even just recently developed a pup.

My question is how do I get the stunning red color to come back?

I plan on rooting this plant to a peice of wood, I have wanted to since I found out you could, I am just searching for the right peice of wood.

Thanks for any info!
Joe

[The Helpful Gardener]

I suspect it might be lighting; often red coloration in foliage is a reaction to increased UV rays. Try increasing them...

Scott

[Joseph]

Where can I get some cheap grow lights?

I live in an apartment, 2nd story, western exposure. My plants only get limited afternoon sunlight. I was thinking a few grow lights would help to solve some of the problems I am having.

Opinions?

[opabinia51]

I hate to say it but, HOME DEPOT. They also sell these nifty apparati that clamp onto shelves and what not that you can screw the light bulbs into.

[Joseph]

Wow, Cool. I didn't figure they would be that easy to get.

Thanks!

[opabinia51]

You are most welcome.