Bird of Paradise plants, with their stunning tropical foliage and vibrant blooms, add a touch of exotic beauty to any indoor or outdoor space. To ensure these majestic plants thrive and reach their full potential, providing them with the right nutrients is essential. Just like any other living organism, Bird of Paradise plants require nourishment to grow healthy leaves and (if you’re lucky!) produce those iconic, colorful flowers. In this article, well explore the best fertilizer for Bird of Paradise and guide you on how to fertilize these plants effectively.
Bird of Paradise plants, scientifically known as Strelitzia reginae, originate from South Africa and are accustomed to nutrient-rich soils. While its challenging to recreate the exact conditions found in their natural habitat, we can still strive to provide them with optimal care. By choosing the right fertilizer, you can supply your Bird of Paradise with the essential nutrients it needs to flourish and achieve its full potential.
The bird of paradise is one of the most stunning and iconic tropical plants known for its beautifully shaped leaves and vibrant orange and blue blooms. To keep your bird of paradise healthy and encourage it to reach its full potential using the right plant food is key. In this article, we’ll explore the best fertilizers and plant foods for bird of paradise plants, when and how often to feed them, and tips to avoid over-fertilization.
What is Bird of Paradise?
Bird of paradise also known by its scientific name Strelitzia reginae is a large evergreen perennial plant that is native to South Africa. This exotic plant gets its name from its uniquely shaped orange and blue flowers that resemble a bird’s head and beak. The leaves are also quite striking—long, broad, grey-green and paddle-shaped.
There are a few different species and hybrids of bird of paradise, but Strelitzia reginae is the most common. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide in ideal conditions, making it a stunning focal point in any garden.
Why Fertilize Bird of Paradise Plants?
Like all plants bird of paradise needs nutrients to thrive. In their native habitat in South Africa they get nutrients from the rich, loamy soil and decomposing plant matter. When grown as houseplants or in gardens, they depend on us to provide nutrients through fertilization.
Fertilizing bird of paradise encourages:
- Lush, vibrant foliage
- More frequent flowering
- Bigger, brighter blooms
- Stronger disease resistance
- Improved cold tolerance
Fertilizing is especially important if your soil is poor quality or your plant is in a container. Regular feeding keeps bird of paradise looking its best!
Best Fertilizers for Bird of Paradise
The best fertilizers for bird of paradise have an NPK ratio around 3-1-2 or 2-1-2. This ratio provides more nitrogen to fuel lush foliage growth. Here are some excellent plant food options:
Liquid Fertilizers
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Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Bloom Booster Flower Food (10-52-10) – This liquid fertilizer has great phosphorus levels to stimulate blooming. Use every 2 weeks.
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Miracle-Gro Liquid All Purpose Plant Food (24-8-16) – A balanced liquid fertilizer ideal for regular feeding. Dilute to 1/4 strength and use every 2 weeks.
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Fish Emulsion – An organic liquid fertilizer that provides nitrogen and micronutrients. Use every 2-4 weeks.
Granular Fertilizers
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Jobe’s Organics All Purpose Fertilizer (4-4-4) – An organic granular fertilizer ideal for biweekly feedings. Just sprinkle around the plant.
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Osmocote Outdoor & Indoor Smart-Release Plant Food (19-6-12) – This slow-release granular fertilizer feeds for 2-3 months. Reapply every 12 weeks.
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Espoma Organic Palm Granular Fertilizer (8-2-12) – Formulated specifically for palms and tropicals. Feed every 6-8 weeks.
Fertilizer Spikes
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Miracle-Gro Shake ‘N Feed Palm Plant Food Spikes (12-4-12) – Insert spikes into the soil every 2 months for easy feeding.
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Jobe’s Organics Palm Fertilizer Spikes (2-2-3) – Organic, slow-release spikes. Use 2 spikes per foot of plant height every 2-3 months.
When and How Often to Fertilize
Bird of paradise plants are heavy feeders, but you don’t want to overdo it. Follow these tips:
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Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during the active growing season in spring through early fall.
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In winter, reduce feeding to once a month or stop completely. Plants are dormant.
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For liquid fertilizer, dilute to half strength and feed every 2-3 weeks.
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For granular fertilizer, sprinkle around the plant and water in every 6-8 weeks.
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Always water the plant well before and after fertilizing.
If you use a slow-release fertilizer, you can likely get away with fertilizing just 2-3 times during the growing season. Pay attention to your plant’s needs and signs of deficiency.
How to Fertilize Bird of Paradise
When using liquid fertilizers, dilute them to half or quarter strength to avoid fertilizer burn. Thoroughly mix the fertilizer with water in a watering can or hose attachment. Pour around the base of the plant and soil surface, avoiding contact with leaves and stems. Water deeply after to wash nutrients into the root zone.
For granular fertilizers, scatter evenly on the soil around the plant, a few inches away from the stem. Water well to dissolve the granules and rinse fertilizer off the leaves.
Always follow label directions for amount and frequency. More is not better with fertilizer—too much can damage roots or leaves.
Signs Your Bird of Paradise Needs Fertilizer
Look for these clues that your bird of paradise would benefit from more nutrients:
- Paler green or yellowing leaves
- Smaller than usual leaves
- Lackluster or few flowers
- Slow growth
- Stunted new leaves
If you notice any of these signs, increase feeding frequency and ensure you are using a fertilizer tailored to bird of paradise plants.
Common Mistakes When Fertilizing Bird of Paradise
It’s easy to over- or under-fertilize bird of paradise plants. Here are some common missteps:
- Using a generic fertilizer not formulated for bird of paradise or tropical plants
- Overdosing on fertilizer by not following label dilution or frequency
- Failing to rinse fertilizer off the leaves and stems
- Fertilizing too late into fall or winter during dormancy
- Not adjusting fertilizer amounts for container versus in-ground plants
Stick to the fertilization guidelines for best results and inspect plants regularly for signs of nutritional deficiencies. A little trial and error can help you determine the optimal fertilizing regimen.
Give Your Bird of Paradise the Best Care
Well-fed bird of paradise plants will reward you with incredible blooms and lush, tropical foliage. Use a high-quality fertilizer formulated for this striking plant at the right times of year. Dilute and apply fertilizer carefully to avoid leaf burn or toxicity. With the right nutrients and care, your bird of paradise will thrive indoors or out!
When To Fertilize Your Bird of Paradise
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When it comes to fertilizing Bird of Paradise plants, timing is crucial. The growing season for these plants typically occurs during spring and summer when they experience active growth. Its during this period that you should focus on providing them with adequate nutrients. To ensure your Bird of Paradise receives the nourishment it requires, incorporate a liquid fertilizer into your watering routine every other week. Liquid fertilizers are easy to use and generally safe for your plants. However, its crucial to follow the instructions on the package carefully, diluting the fertilizer into water to avoid over-fertilization and potential fertilizer burn.
As fall approaches and your Bird of Paradise enters its dormant stage, its important to adjust your fertilization routine accordingly. During this period, you should taper off fertilizing and reduce it to every three or four weeks. This adjustment allows the plant to prepare for its dormant phase in winter when growth slows down. If your plant is no longer growing at all, you can completely stop fertilizing until the spring.
What NPK Ratio Does The Bird Of Paradise Need?
Transform your Bird of Paradise into a leafy paradise with healthy leaf growth!
Understanding fertilizer terminology can be daunting, particularly if youre new to plant care. Fertilizers are often labeled with an NPK ratio, representing the ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) they contain. Each plant species has specific nutritional requirements, which is why its recommended to choose fertilizers tailored to the plant you are nurturing.
Bird of Paradise plants, similar to their foliage-loving counterparts, benefit from fertilizers with an NPK ratio of 3-1-2. This ratio signifies a higher nitrogen content, which is essential for promoting healthy leaf growth and overall plant vigor. Nitrogen supports the production of chlorophyll, which is responsible for the plants lush green foliage. Our all-natural liquid plant food is gentle enough to use on your Bird of Paradise year round, and has an excellent NPK ratio not just for Birds of Paradise but for all indoor plants.
Bird Of Paradise Indoor Plant – Things To Know Before Buying
FAQ
What can I feed my bird of paradise?
Bird of Paradise plants, similar to their foliage-loving counterparts, benefit from fertilizers with an NPK ratio of 3-1-2.Jun 1, 2023
How to make a bird of paradise thrive?
Water and humidity are important to keep your Bird of Paradise healthy. It needs consistent watering to keep the soil moist, but never wet or soggy.
Can I use Miracle-Gro on bird of paradise?
Plantita tips for my bird of paradise Fertilize – Every other week for spring/summer months. I’ve used the same miracle gro fertilizer for years, works for me.
How to help a sick bird of paradise plant?
Other Common Bird of Paradise Problems
Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap, and clean the plant regularly. Diseases: Root rot and fungal infections due to excess moisture and soil contamination are common. Remove diseased parts and control humidity and water levels.