Q.How can I encourage a 16yo BOP to bloom?
Hello, my Uncle has had a birds of paradise (BOP) planted in the ground for 16 years and it has NEVER bloomed once! I am a gardener and I can pretty much grow anything from seed or bulbs?❤ but I am still learning about and caring for already established plants. I know BOP like their roots to be pot bound and to be fed a lot to produce blooms but since in the ground what should I do to help encourage it to bloom? I also know it can often take 4-10 years for BOP to flower, but it’s been 16! Please help! Any tips or “secrets” to get it to bloom would be fantastic!! I really appreciate it. Thank you so much.
(I make my own compost, would this help?)
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
This article about outdoor care of BOP should help. Often, if a plant doesn't bloom, it means not enough sun. BOP need a moist, organic rich, well-drained soil in full sun. (Yes, your compost will help a lot!)
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bop/bird-of-paradise-outdoors.htm
