How to Cut a Bird-of-Paradise Plant
The bird-of-paradise, also known as Strelitzia reginae or "crane flower," is a perennial evergreen plant that is native to southern Africa. Bird-of-paradise flowers are colorful blooms that resemble the head of an exotic bird. These intriguing-looking and long-lasting flowers are add a tropical flair to cut-flower arrangements. Properly cared for, a cut bird-of-paradise flower can survive for up to three weeks. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Select a particular flower to cut from your bird-of-paradise plant. Choose a stem that is about to bloom, but has not yet done so as the flower will last in a vase for up to three weeks.
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Use a sharp knife to cut the stem of your bird-of-paradise flower at an angle. This will help your bird-of-paradise intake water from the vase it is kept in. Cut generously, as you will have to cut additional length from the stem later on.
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Fill a vase two thirds of the way full with decorative stones. These will help give your cut bird-of-paradise stability in the vase.
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Mix a packet of flower food with enough water to fill the vase to within 2 inches of the top. Add the water and flower food mixture to the prepared vase, then situate the cut bird-of-paradise in the vase.
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Change the water in the vase once a week to keep your bird-of-paradise healthy. Each time you change the water, cut an additional three-quarters of an inch from the end of the flower's stem.
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Tips & Warnings
If you don't have a packet of flower food, you can add a bit of a citrus soda like Sprite, 7-Up or Slice to your flower's water. These sodas all contain citric acid, one of the main ingredients in flower food.
The seeds and leaves of the bird-of-paradise plant contain toxins that are dangerous if ingested by pets or small children. Make sure to keep your bird-of-paradise out of reach of those who may accidentally ingest it.
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- Photo Credit Polka Dot Images/Polka Dot/Getty Images
