The Bird of Paradise, or crane flower, as you may call it in South Africa, is a striking houseplant known for its lush, fan-like foliage and dramatic flowers. Often mistaken for a banana tree, due to its naturally torn leaves along the edges, it produces vivid blooms in shades of orange, blue, white, and purple.
Although Birds of Paradise plants are relatively easy to care for, understanding their water requirements is key if you wish to enjoy their vibrant look for years.
So, how often should you water a Bird of Paradise? Do Birds of Paradise like to be wet? This comprehensive guide has all the answers. Keep reading to learn everything you need about watering these gorgeous large exotic plants at home.
Knowing how often to water a bird of paradise plant is key to keeping it healthy and thriving indoors or outdoors. With large, banana-like leaves and unique blooms, bird of paradise is a stunning tropical plant. However, its water needs can be tricky to perfect.
Watering too little or too much can cause issues, so understanding optimal frequency and techniques is vital. In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about watering bird of paradise successfully.
Factors That Impact Bird of Paradise Watering Frequency
Many elements play a role in determining the right watering routine for your bird of paradise. As you care for your plant, keep these key factors in mind:
Seasons
Bird of paradise grows actively in spring through fall. During peak growth water 1-2 times per week. In winter scale back to every 10-14 days as growth slows. Outdoor plants need watering 2 times per week in summer.
Plant Size
Bigger plants with more leaves lose moisture faster through transpiration. More frequent watering is needed for large, mature plants versus smaller, younger ones.
Pot Size
Small pots dry out quickly while large containers retain moisture longer. Adjust watering frequency based on pot size. Use a porous pot to prevent soggy soil.
Sun Exposure
Bright light causes faster moisture loss. Bird of paradise appreciates ample light but can dry out quicker in direct sun. Provide more water in sunny spots.
Temperature & Humidity
Hot, dry conditions cause faster evaporation of water from soil and leaves. Boost humidity and water more often in arid environments
Air Circulation
Good airflow is beneficial but constant breezes will lead to quicker soil drying. Reduce watering frequency in drafty areas.
Potting Mix
Fast-draining mixes require more frequent watering than moisture-retaining organic mixes. Add sand or perlite to improve drainage.
How to Tell When Your Bird of Paradise Needs Water
It’s easy to determine when your bird of paradise is thirsty. Watch for these signs:
- Drooping or wilting leaves
- Dry, brittle leaf tips
- Stunted new growth
- Soil feels dry when checked 2-3 inches deep
- Pot feels lightweight when lifted
- Lower leaves yellow
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to give your plant a good drink. Always check soil moisture before watering on a schedule.
Overwatering Signs
Too much moisture can also be problematic. Watch for:
- Wilting leaves
- Lower leaf yellowing
- Wet, soggy soil
- Moldy odor from potting mix
- Presence of root rot
- Increased leaf splitting
Reduce watering if you notice these issues to prevent further damage.
When to Water Bird of Paradise
- Morning is best time to water. Avoid hot afternoon to prevent leaf burn.
- Evenings can work but take care not to overwater.
- Anytime is okay if you check soil moisture first.
How Much Water Does Bird of Paradise Need?
- Apply enough water for it to run out drainage holes.
- Larger pots need more total water but same frequency.
- Outdoor plants may need increased volume.
- Adjust volume as plant grows bigger.
Best Ways to Water Bird of Paradise
- Hand watering with watering can with long spout
- Soak pot in basin of water for 15-30 minutes
- Drip irrigation or soaker hoses for outdoor plants
- Automatic irrigation on a timer, adjusted seasonally
- Self-watering pots maintain even moisture
Bird of Paradise Watering Tips
- Water until water flows from drainage holes to soak entire root zone
- Use room temperature water to avoid shocking roots
- Check for signs of over and underwatering and adjust routine accordingly
- Repot annually to refresh aging, moisture-retaining soil
- Increase frequency in summer, decrease in winter
- Mist leaves daily to boost humidity
Bird of Paradise Watering Frequency Guidelines
Here are some general guidelines for how often to water your bird of paradise:
- Indoors: Water 1 time per week year-round
- Outdoors: Water 2-3 times per week in summer, 1 time per week in spring & fall, every 2 weeks in winter
- During growth spurts: Increase frequency
- While blooming: Check soil frequently and water when dry
Remember to reduce frequency if you notice overwatering signs. As you gain experience caring for your bird of paradise, you’ll get a feel for when it needs water in your specific growing conditions.
Troubleshooting Bird of Paradise Watering Problems
If you notice signs of under or overwatering, here are some tips to get your watering routine back on track:
- Repot in fresh potting mix annually
- Add sand or perlite to improve drainage
- Water slowly to prevent runoff
- Trim rotting roots and repot in dry soil
- Move plant to suitable lighting conditions
- Use self-watering pots for even moisture
With proper watering techniques and attention to your plant’s needs, you can keep your bird of paradise looking lush and beautiful in any season!
Bottom Line on Watering Bird of Paradise
- Check soil moisture before watering, don’t rely on schedules
- Water 1-2 times per week during active growth periods
- Reduce frequency in winter when plant is dormant
- Water thoroughly until water drains from pot
- Watch for signs of over and underwatering and adjust routine
- Consider seasons, plant size, pot type, and environment
By understanding your specific bird of paradise plant’s water preferences and making adjustments over time, you can maintain ideal soil moisture. Mastering the watering needs of this tropical plant will allow you to enjoy its stunning foliage and flowers for years to come.
When to Water Bird of Paradise
Water your Bird of Paradise plant once every 1-2 weeks. Check the soil beforehand and ensure that about 50% is dry. Factors like temperature and humidity influence how often you water your Bird of Paradise in summer and winter. You may need to hydrate it once a week in the summer, as it needs more moisture in hot weather. In winter, however, you may reduce watering to every 3 weeks.
Q: Can Bird of Paradise grow in water?
A: No, a Bird of Paradise can’t grow entirely in water. It needs well-draining soil to thrive. While some plants can survive in water, this one requires its roots to breathe and dry out between waterings. You can root cuttings in water for a short time, but the plant needs soil for long-term health.
Bird Of Paradise COMPLETE Care Guide Tips + Tricks For Strelizia | Plant Tips For Beginners
FAQ
How do I know if my Bird of Paradise needs water?
- Dry and curled foliage.
- Dry potting mix.
- Breaking or splitting foliage.
- Brown leaves with crisp edges.
- Dusty, crumbly topsoil.
- Slow or stunted growth.
Does Bird of Paradise need full sun?
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Light Requirements:Bird of Paradise plants need a lot of light, both direct and bright indirect light, to thrive and bloom.
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Ideal Locations:
- Indoors: A south or west-facing window is ideal, but they can also tolerate east-facing windows, especially for smaller plants.
- Outdoors: They can be grown outdoors in warm climates, but they need to be acclimated to the stronger sunlight.
- Indoors: A south or west-facing window is ideal, but they can also tolerate east-facing windows, especially for smaller plants.
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Acclimation:If moving a Bird of Paradise from a shaded area to a sunnier spot, do it gradually to prevent leaf burn.
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Blooming:Bright, direct light is crucial for Bird of Paradise plants to bloom.
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Signs of Insufficient Light:If your plant is not getting enough light, you may notice leaf splitting, drooping leaves, new leaves that won’t open, or leaf browning.
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Watering:Bird of Paradise plants need to be watered regularly, but allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
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Other Care Tips:
- Humidity: They prefer higher humidity levels (50-70%).
- Temperature: They thrive in standard indoor temperatures and should be kept away from air vents.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize during the growing season (spring through fall).
- Pruning: Remove dead or yellowing leaves and faded flower stalks.
- Humidity: They prefer higher humidity levels (50-70%).
Should I cut off brown leaves on Bird of Paradise?
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Why remove them?
- Dead or severely damaged leaves won’t revive and can detract from the plant’s overall appearance.
- Removing them can help prevent the spread of pests or diseases.
- Pruning back dying foliage can encourage new growth.
- Dead or severely damaged leaves won’t revive and can detract from the plant’s overall appearance.
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How to prune:
- Use clean, sharp tools like shears or loppers.
- Cut the brown leaves at the base of the stem, where they meet the main plant structure.
- If the entire leaf is brown, cut it off completely.
- If only the tips or edges are brown, you can trim those areas, but try to maintain the natural shape of the leaf.
- Use clean, sharp tools like shears or loppers.
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When to prune:
- You can prune your Bird of Paradise throughout the year as needed, but it’s especially beneficial to prune at the end of winter or early spring to encourage new growth for the upcoming growing season.
- You can prune your Bird of Paradise throughout the year as needed, but it’s especially beneficial to prune at the end of winter or early spring to encourage new growth for the upcoming growing season.
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Other tips for healthy Bird of Paradise:
- Ensure the plant receives bright, indirect light.
- Water thoroughly when the topsoil is dry, but avoid overwatering.
- Use a well-draining potting mix.
- Consider misting the leaves to increase humidity, especially in dry environments.
- Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- If you notice hard brown spots on the leaf undersides or other parts, wipe them with neem oil, or insecticidal soap, as the plant is most likely suffering from pests.
- Ensure the plant receives bright, indirect light.
How many cups of water does a Bird of Paradise need?
Bird of Paradise needs 0.8 cups of water every 9 days when it doesn’t get direct sunlight and is potted in a 5.0″ pot.