Sincerely, Al
The Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) do best with at least four
hours of direct sunlight a day, but should have bright light all day, with
day temperatures of 68-72° and night temperatures of 50° to 55°. Generally
they are hardy to about 20°. They flower more readily when they are somewhat
rootbound, which is why they are more often grown in large pots or tubs. It
should be potted in a mixture of sterile potting soil, peat moss, and sand
with a liberal amount of bone meal added. Excellent drainage is essential.
Keep the soil evenly moist except from November-February when the plant should
be kept on the dry side. Feed every two weeks from March through September
with a balanced (10-10-10) fertilizer. Plants are propagated by divisions
and seed, neither of which is difficult. Divisions may take two years to reach
blooming size, when grown from seed it will take from seven to ten years before
you see your first flower.
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