white bird of paradise

Question

I have a white bird of paradise rescued from Lowe’s in Northern Va. It is about 10′ tall. Most of the leaves had damage, so I trimmed them but not really short. How short can they be trimmed, and can I plant it outside if I protect it in the cold (Mulch, blanket plastic)? It seems to have a white film on it. The pot it was in split from the roots.

Answer 1

Here is an article on how to prune a bird of paradise that will guide you:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bop/bird-of-paradise-pruning.htm

Usually when someone describes a "white film" it is powdery mildew. Here is an article on powdery mildew that will help you:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/powdery-mildew-homemade-and-organic-remedies.htm

The bird of paradise will not survive temperatures below 50F. For this reason, I would recommend that your bird of paradise be outdoors only during warmer months. Here is an article that outlines the care of bird of paradise plants:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bop/bird-of-paradise-an-exotic-flower-like-none-other.htm

Happy gardening!