How to Grow Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia Reginae)

Bird of paradise is a tropical-looking plant with paddle-shaped leaves and exotic flowers that resemble a bird's beak.

Things You'll Need

• Bypass Pruners
• Fertilizers
• Garden Hoses
• Mulch
• Plants

Instructions

Planting Bird of Paradise

1. Plant bird of paradise in full sun in well-drained soil.

2. Add a light application of organic fertilizer to the planting hole.

3. Place the plants no deeper than they were growing in the containers.

4. Set the plants 2 feet apart.

5. Mulch around but not on top of the plants with 3 inches of organic compost.

6. Water well until soil is completely moist.

Choosing Bird of Paradise

1. Look for plants at nurseries year-round.

2. Buy bird of paradise in 1-gallon containers.

3. Choose healthy-looking plants with signs of new growth in leaves and flower buds.

Caring for Bird of Paradise

1. Deadhead (cut off old flower stems) with bypass pruners.

2. Mulch around but not on top of the plants with 3 inches of organic compost in early spring.

3. Use a liquid fertilizer monthly; follow package directions.

4. Water weekly until soil is completely moist.