I’m thrilled to share with you a comprehensive guide with a video on how to divide Bird of Paradise plants (Strelitzia Nicolai). This guide is inspired by many of you who have reached out, asking for a detailed walkthrough, and I’m excited to delve into this topic. I will show you how to divide the Bird of Paradise plant and make multiple arrangements afterward.
You will learn:
✅ how to divide different size Bird of Paradise plants;
✅ how to use a knife to divide the Bird of Paradise plant;
✅ how to prune roots and how much is OK to cut back;
✅ what is the right size pot for repotting divided Bird of Paradise stems;
✅ how to create Bird of Paradise plant arrangements with divided stems.
Why divide Bird of Paradise plants?
The Bird of Paradise, known for its stunning, crane-like flowers and large, tropical leaves, can become quite the centerpiece in any home or garden. However, there comes a time when your plant might outgrow its pot or when you simply desire more arrangements than the single plant you have. This is where division comes into play, allowing you to spread the beauty of this exotic plant across multiple pots or areas in your home or garden.
Preparing for Bird of Paradise division
For my project, I have three different sizes of Bird of Paradise plants, ranging from smaller ones in 10-inch nursery pots to larger ones in 14-inch pots. It’s fascinating to see the differences in their root systems, with the larger plants having thicker and more entwined roots. Each stem of the plant is essentially a separate entity with its own root system, making the division process a strategic one.
Tools and materials for dividing Bird of Paradise plants
To ensure a successful division, you’ll need the following tools and materials:
– Sharp knife and scissors for cutting through and trimming the roots;
– Alcohol for disinfecting tools to prevent infection;
– Pots of various sizes for the newly divided plants;
– Soil and a watering can for potting and initial care;
Bird of Paradise plant division process
Starting with smaller plants
The smaller Bird of Paradise plants are easier to divide, often requiring no tools at all. By gently removing the soil to expose the roots, you can usually separate the stems by hand.
It’s a simpler process that serves as a good warm-up for the more challenging task of dividing the larger plants.
Tackling the larger plants
Dividing larger Bird of Paradise plants is where the challenge truly lies. Their mature, entwined root systems necessitate the use of sharp tools.
Carefully cutting through the roots while aiming to preserve as much of the root system as possible is crucial.
Remember, it’s okay to cut the roots; the plant can recover from the shock with proper care.
Potting the divided Bird of Paradise plants
Once divided, each Bird of Paradise plant needs to be potted in its appropriate-sized pot.
This might involve further root pruning if the pot is not deep enough to accommodate the root ball.
However, it’s essential not to remove more than 20% of the Bird of Paradise roots to avoid overly shocking the plant.
Bird of Paradise post-division care
After the division and potting process, it’s vital to give your new Bird of Paradise arrangements a thorough watering.
It’s normal for the plants to experience some shock, indicated by leaf yellowing or droopiness. Proper love and care, including regular watering and appropriate light, will help them recover and thrive anew.
Growing forward
The Bird of Paradise is a relatively fast-growing plant that typically needs repotting every two years. Keeping an eye on its growth and not letting it become too root-bound is crucial for maintaining its health and beauty. With the right Bird of Paradise care, your divided plants will soon flourish, bringing new life and vibrancy to your space.
EXTRA TIPS
- The best time to divide Bird of Paradise plants is early Spring- early Summer.
- Use fresh soil for repotting.
- Divided and potted Bird of Paradise plants need to be watered more frequently for the first 3 months.
- Plants require more water in dry and hot weather.
- Do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
- Check the soil often to ensure that it stays moist.
- Place Bird of Paradise plants in the brightest light spot.
- Rotate every time you water to provide equal light exposure to all sides.
- Mist frequently for refreshment.
- Place a humidifier nearby to elevate humidity levels.
My final thoughts on how to divide Bird of Paradise plants
Dividing Bird of Paradise plants might seem daunting at first, but with the right tools, technique, and care, it’s a deeply rewarding project.
I hope this guide inspires you to tackle your own plant division project and that the tips and insights shared here help you along the way. Remember, gardening is a journey of learning and growth, both for the plants and for us as their caretakers. So, embrace the process, enjoy the beauty of creation, and here’s to having a greener day!
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