Pruning Bird of Paradise

Question

The Bird of Paradise has been blooming for 30 years – tall leaves, one bird or two per stalk. It had not had any attention for 6 months, had many dead birds, and had really spread. Asked the new gardener to prune the dead and cut back some. He cut all down to about 12 inches, not a leaf left. When I questioned him, he said it would grow back and I would have more birds in two months. Is this correct? Please, I hope so! I love the birds and use them in displays.

Answer 1

Yes, it is ok to cut it back like this, and it should grow back just fine. Here is an article that you may find helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bop/bird-of-paradise-pruning.htm