I want to grow Mexican Bird of Paradise from seeds. I've collected seeds from the red and yellow species. When should I plants the seeds? I've purchased numerous peat pots that I want to start them in and then plant the whole pot.
After collecting the seeds from the dried seed pods make sure you dry them throughly.
They can then be stored in a lidded jar and placed in the refrigerator. Label them as the seeds are poisonous.
In spring, 6 weeks before the last frost, remove from the refrigerator and nick the seeds so they can take up water.
Soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours.
If the seeds float they can be discarded as they are not likely viable.
Sow the seeds in a mixture of potting mix, sand and perlite.
Cover the seeds with 1/4 inch of potting mixture. Cover with plastic and place in warm area.
Keep the seeds moist and you should see germination in one to four weeks.
Once they have germinated you will need to provide 14 to 16 hours of sunlight or a grow light.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bop/mexican-red-bird-of-paradise.htm
My plant closes up its leaves. Is this a sign of stress, too much sun or water? Thank you.
Red Mexican Bird Of Paradise need weekly water.
Increase watering if the soil is dry.
Here is a link to refresh you on the care requirements.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bop/mexican-red-bird-of-paradise.htm
I purchased a Mexican bird of paradise and a red bird of paradise and planted them approximately 6 months ago. They were doing well, bloomed, but now the leaves on both are yellowing from the bottom up. I had been watering every other day (and it rains rarely) but I was told not to water more than once a week. I also fertilized them with an all purpose slow release fertilizer. Is over watering the problem, or could it be not enough watering? Also, will the ones that are yellowing come back, or should I cut the stems of them off? Thank you for your help!
There are several reasons why a plant gets yellow leaves. Typically it is a water or fertilizer issue. Make sure that it is getting the right amount of water and is fertilized (especially with iron) is a first step. This article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/plant-leaves-turn-yellow.htm
I just got a bird of paradise and was wanting to know how I can get it to bloom. I live in Texas. What do I need to do to get them to bloom and can I put them in the ground or do they need to stay in pots?
You can keep Bird Of Paradise in pots or plant it out.
Here is a great article that will help you get your plant blooming.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bop/bird-of-paradise-blooms.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bop/dividing-bird-of-paradise.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bop/bird-of-paradise-an-exotic-flower-like-none-other.htm
Have a large plant, an established Mexican bird of paradise. Want to move it without losing or damaging it. Thanks for any help, Sue
The Mexican Bird Of Paradise have a large expansive root system.
Cut the plant back by 1/3 prior to moving. Dig as much of the roots up as possible and locate to it's new location right away.
Water lightly, do not over water, as this could cause root rot.
You will be left will lots of roots in the old location.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bop/mexican-red-bird-of-paradise.htm
When is the best time to transplant the Spanish red bird of paradise tree? I've had it growing in a pot and want to plant it in my yard.
It is best to plant out your potted Spanish Red Bird Of Paradise Tree in warm temperatures, plant outdoors from May to September.
Winter over the tree in the pot and then relocate to your yard next year.
How far down can you cut a bird of paradise that is too big? I don't want to kill the big bird but I think it could fall on the house.
You need to trim back while it is dormant.
Regular pruning will help keep your plant in control as they do not shed their old leaves and flowers.
Tidy up the plant at any time by cleaning up any damaged or dead leaves or flowers.
Trim close to the plant to keep it as healthy as possible.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bop/bird-of-paradise-pruning.htm