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Bird of Paradise Propagation (Strelitzia)
The Bird of Paradise plant, commonly known as Strelitzia (Strelitzia reginae) is an exuberant plant with a splendid orange flower like a rooster’s cockscomb. There are different varieties of Birds of Paradise plants. Our readers have recently written to us asking “Can you propagate Bird of Paradise?” Yes, Bird of Paradise propagation is not complicated, it just requires some particular care, such as propagating Bird of Paradise at the right time of the year. So we have updated this article to bring you all the detailed information on How to Propagate Birds of Paradise (by division or by seeds). This is the complete guide, step-by-step, with all the tips you will need to learn How to Propagate Bird of Paradise successfully. Also, we include general guidelines for Strelitzia propagation.
There are several species of Bird of Paradise plants. However, the most attractive is Strelitzia reginae with its striking orange flowers.
Other species do not have flowers, commonly called fake-Bird of Paradise plant or fake-Strelitzia. Also, some species have white flowers.
Bird of Paradise Propagation
Birds of Paradise (Strelitzia) can be propagated in 2 different ways. Strelitzia can be propagated by division and by seeds.
Propagation of Bird of Paradise by division is the recommended method.
Propagate Bird of Paradise by Division
Bird of Paradise tends to generate more than one sprout. So, from a bush, it can be divided by taking out two or more plants by separating the sprouts and branches.
When to Propagate Bird of Paradise by Division
When is the Best Time to Propagate Bird of Paradise? Spring or early summer is the Best Time to Propagate Bird of Paradise by Division.
When the group of plants looks like in this picture, they must be separated. This plant does not need to be pruned, but it does need the offspring to be separated from the mother plant by division. They will easily develop because the root system is not central.
Step-by-Step Propagate Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia) By Division
The easiest method is to divide the Bird of Paradise mother plant and repot it again or divide and place it in the grown. Basically, the Strelitzia independently trains young plants, which can be identified as a shoot and which already have their own roots.
A plant division is when the plant is removed from its pot or grown and the root is cut into two parts with the help of a disinfected knife. Not all plants can be divided by division. Strelitzia can be propagated by division because it forms independent structures that grow at the root level, resembling large bulbs. These structures can be seen as large in adult plants. In this type of plant, it is also recommended to separate and divide structures when plants are planted in the garden and are observed to be overgrown.
Let’s start with the step of step for Birds of Paradise Propagation by Division
The division consists in removing a part of the adult plant, with great care, taking care not to break the roots. It is unavoidable to break some roots. The Best Time to Propagate Bird of Paradise by Division is spring or early summer which is when the plant is in an active period, rapid growth and will recover the affected roots during the process.
- A useful tip to avoid breaking roots is to water before dividing the plant. In this way, you will see that the soil is easier to handle and the soil sticks to the roots providing some protection while the whole adult plant below ground will be easier to handle and separate (divide).
- Before proceeding to divide the adult plant, prepare the pots or the part of your garden where you will plant the plant in the division. This will prevent the transplanted roots be damaged by air and high oxygen content, light, etc.
- If you are going to propagate in pots, keep in mind that Bird of Paradise grows and develops into a large plant. The roots of Bird of Paradise will develop as much as the pot will allow. Finally, for proper growth in pots, use soil that allows adequate drainage.
- If you plan to grow a Bird of Paradise divided in another part of your garden, be sure to make a deep enough hole to cover the entire bulb with roots. Also, loosen some of the surrounding soil. This will allow the roots to adapt more quickly to the change, minimizing stress on the transplanted plant.
- Whether your Bird of Paradise will be propagated in the grown or a pot, it is essential to prepare the right substrate to propagate Birds of Paradise successfully.
- Prepare the right substrate for Bird of Paradise propagation with a mixture of 70% soil, and 30% peat and add a fungicide. Mix these components very well.
- The fungicide will prevent root disease during the propagation process. It is essential to add fungicide at this stage for successful propagation.
- The soil does not need to be sterile, but it must be of good quality and clean. I recommend not using soil from homemade compost to avoid Sterilitzia root disease during this stage of propagation. It can be used later when the plant is already adapted.
- Before applying any cutting separating the roots of Bird of paradise to perform the propagation by division, disinfect the tools you will use for the cutting.
- Then proceed to cut and separate those roots. As mentioned above, avoid exposing the roots to the air and transfer them quickly to the loose substrate (not compact) explained in the previous paragraph.
- Cover the roots completely with the prepared substrate mix and compact the surface to ensure a fixed position on the plant in new growth and development.
- Finally, water the new propagated Bird of Paradise plant.
- If potted Bird of Paradise, place these pots in a warm and bright environment without direct exposure to the sun.
After one month and a half, these plants will open up and can be treated like any Bird of paradise plant.
Nutrient deficiency in plants can be the source of many diseases, learn more about fertilization and How to Care for Birds of Paradise Plants Outdoors here.
- Control and prevent common garden diseases with Sulfur Plant Fungicide Micronized Spray or Dust from Bonide!
- This fungicide controls diseases including rust, leaf spot, mildew and more. Sulfur Plant Fungicide can be applied to fruits, vegetables and ornamentals in your garden to prevent disease.
- Sulfur Plant Fungicide also works as a pesticide! Apply to animals to help control fleas, ticks and mites! This product can be applied directly to dogs, horses, cattle, swine, game birds and more.
- Canadian sphagnum peat Moss
- Premium grade of horticultural, 99.8 percent organic
- When mixed with soil, increases the soil's capacity to hold water and nutrients
Propagating Strelitzia from Seeds
The Bird of Paradise can be propagated by seeds in seedbeds or the division of bushes. We recommend these Bird of Paradise seeds for propagation (Order it here).
Remember that this plant can take up to 6 years to flower, so if you want to enjoy its beautiful flowers quickly you can choose to acquire a plant already developed (Order it here).
Once given the first flowering can have a longevity of up to 4 years, although it depends on conditions and care.
- Bird of Paradise Strelitzia Plant Seeds Exotic Tropical Flower Seeds 2 Packs
- The bird of paradise flower meaning includes joy and paradise, as it is the quintessential tropical flower.
- widely cultivated for its dramatic flowers. In temperate areas it is a popular houseplant.
Soil for Strelitzia
Prepare the soil for the Bird of Paradise plant considering these factors. When it comes to planting a Bird of Paradise you should know that it demands deep, clayey soil with abundant organic matter, with good permeability and drainage.
Special care must be taken to maintain adequate drainage to avoid possible overwatering.
Weather for Strelitzia
Ideal conditions are between 59-86 F (15 and 30 °C). This plant has optimal development when exposed to the sun.
However, in the shade or half-shade, if the climate is warm, it is well tolerated and the plant can achieve good development even if it is not directly exposed to the sun.
Sowing and Transplanting Bird of Paradise
The process of growing a Bird of Paradise is done independently of the seasons, so it can be planted at any time.
