How to Grow Bird of Paradise? Detailed Guide to Care Methods and Precautions

Bird of paradise, also known as the crane flower or paradise bird flower, is native to Africa and was later introduced to our country as an ornamental plant, with unusual and beautiful flower shapes. So, what are the care methods and precautions for bird of paradise?

1. Care methods for bird of paradise

1. Temperature management

This flower is naturally fond of a warm, humid, semi-shaded environment, with an optimal temperature of 12-25 degrees; in winter it is best kept above 5 degrees for bird of paradise to survive well, and the soil should be loose, deep, humus-rich soil.

2. Watering management

In summer, watering bird of paradise must follow the principle of watering when dry and letting it dry between waterings; watering should be sufficient and just right. In spring and summer, water should also be sprayed on the flowerpot or leaves to maintain the relative humidity of the surrounding environment and create a cool environment, which is more conducive to the growth and development of bird of paradise. By late autumn, the amount of watering should be slightly controlled and appropriately reduced. In winter, water less, and it is better for the potting soil to be on the dry side, since water evaporates less in winter.

3. Fertilization management

During the growing period, bird of paradise requires a diluted liquid fertilizer watering once every half month. If grown at home, rice-washing water or water soaked with soybeans can be used for watering. During the period from flower stem formation to full bloom, 0.5% superphosphate can be added to the fertilizer solution, which can make the flowers bloom more vividly.

4. Potting soil management

The roots of bird of paradise are very thick and fleshy, and can be mixed according to 5 parts leaf mold or peat soil + 3 parts garden soil + 1 part decomposed manure + 1 part coarse sand. If the prepared soil has poor permeability and too much water is given, it can easily cause root rot. Some expanded clay pebbles can be added to the soil and mixed in. The root system of bird of paradise develops very quickly and grows at an astonishing rate, so it needs to be repotted in time.

5. Sowing and planting

Bird of paradise generally does not set seed, but if hand-pollinated it can set seed. The seeds mature in only three months and should be sown immediately after collection. At a seed temperature between 25-30, they will germinate in 2-3 weeks, and seedlings grown from seed will bloom only after three years.

6. Home growing

Propagation is usually done by division, which can be carried out in both spring and autumn. Turn the pot of seedlings upside down and cut from the root crown with a knife. The cut surface should be coated with plant ash to prevent rot. Each division should retain 2-3 buds and can bloom in the same year.

2. Precautions for growing bird of paradise

Bird of paradise likes warmth and humidity, and an environment with plenty of sunlight and moist air, and it is not cold-tolerant. If the potting soil has too much standing water for a long time, it will cause root rot. Apart from summer, when watering needs to be sufficient, the amount of watering should be appropriately reduced in other seasons. When the indoor temperature is low in winter, watering should be controlled. In summer, also pay attention to keeping the air humidity around the flowerpot moist, spray more water when you have time, and avoid direct sunlight or scorching sun, so as not to burn the leaves.

The above are the care methods and precautions for bird of paradise shared with you by the editor. I hope they can help you!