Hello! I know I'm not to the first to find myself in this predicament, but some friends gave a beautiful Aechmea budding to flower. I was obviously grateful but, although I've kept a variety of plants over the years, I have NO experience with bromeliads! I have read what I could find on the plant and tried to adjust it's conditions accordingly. However, the buds are dying and one leaf at the base died. It had no water in the "tank" when I recieved it, and I don't know if this problem is from past stress related to that or what.

I have only South facing windows in my apartment and currently have it in one with the blinds down and cracked just a hair. Is this proper placement?

I read somewhat mixed reviews on watering.Should I water the soil at all, or only keep water in the tank? Oh, it does have a small humidity tray as well.

Any advice is appreciated!