Live Plants - Bird of Paradise

1. Watering:

• Bird of Paradise is a heavy drinker, requiring frequent watering.
• Ensure the soil is thoroughly wet with each watering and allow it to dry to a moist level before watering again.
• Consider using a soil probe to accurately measure soil moisture and avoid over or under-watering.
• Signs of underwatering include dry leaves, crispy tips, and extreme leaf splitting.

2. Lighting:

• Bird of Paradise requires abundant sunlight to thrive.
• Place the plant in an east, west, or south-facing location to maximize sunlight exposure.
• Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even growth on all sides.
• Insufficient light can lead to drooping leaves, new leaves failing to open, or leaf browning.

3. Cleaning:

• Regularly clean the plant to remove dust, which can block sunlight absorption and attract pests.
• Use a cloth soaked in water and light soap to wipe down each leaf, including the underside.
• Cleaning aids in pest control and ensures the plant remains healthy.

4. Pest Control:

• Bird of Paradise is prone to mealybug and mite infestations if not cared for properly.
• Monitor the plant for signs of pests, such as cottony mealybugs.
• Treat infestations by wiping leaves with a light soapy solution daily until pests are eradicated.

5. Pruning:

• Trim away dead or old leaves with brown spots to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
• The natural split in the leaves allows light to penetrate deeper into the plant and facilitates airflow.
• Extreme leaf splitting may indicate insufficient light and should be addressed by adjusting the plant's location.

6. Fertilizing:

• Bird of Paradise may require fertilization quarterly after the initial six months.
• Use a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth.