Struggling with Tillandsia Ionantha — would appreciate advice

I want to be honest: I'm not getting great results with Tillandsia Ionantha and I'm not entirely sure why. base rot from water not drying within four hours of soaking has been a recurring problem despite my attempts to address it. I've been focusing on shaking off excess water after soaking to prevent rot at the base based on everything I've read.

surprisingly tough once watering rhythm is established is there in glimpses, which tells me the plant has potential in my conditions. I have it in a decorative driftwood or cork bark mount which might not be ideal. flowering triggered by lengthening days in spring or summer showed some improvement. Two stars for now — not the plant's fault, but not a success yet. I'll update if things improve.