How to Plant Bird of Paradise Plant in a Pot

Bird of paradise is a tropical flowering plant that thrives in pots indoors. These plants produce brightly colored flowers that resemble the head of an exotic bird. When not flowering, the deep green, lush foliage adds color to indoor areas. Bird of paradise can reach up to 5 feet high, so it is suitable in areas where you need a houseplant to make a bold statement. It is not frost-tolerant but can be placed outside during the summer months and then brought in before the weather turns cold.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

• Potting soil
• Fertilizer

1. Fill a flower pot with a moist, high-quality potting mixture. Use a pot that is only 3 to 4 inches larger in diameter than the plant’s roots, as bird of paradise prefers to be slightly pot-bound.

2. Plant the bird of paradise root, or rhizome, so the top is 2 inches beneath the soil surface. Firm the soil lightly around the plant with your hands.

3. Water the soil in the pot just until it is moist, then set the pot in a warm, brightly lit area. Avoid placing the pot in direct sunlight.

4. Relocate the pot to a window that receives full sunlight eight weeks after planting the bird of paradise. Continue to water when the soil surface begins to dry.

5. Fertilize the plant with a water-soluble houseplant fertilizer at the rate recommended on the package. Fertilize every two weeks in spring and weekly in summer. Do not fertilize in fall and winter when the bird-of-paradise is dormant.

Tips & Warnings

• Bird-of-paradise prefers warm areas of the home, where temperatures are 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day.

• Do not place the plant near air or heat vents, as these can dry out the plant or the soil and damage the bird of paradise.

• Avoid over-fertilizing. This causes the plant to grow lush foliage but may keep it from blooming.