Question
I have just received a lovely bunch of cut Bird of Paradise flowers. Do they need any special care? I was once told that the closed flower buds must be carefully pried open and the flowers pulled out. I was told if the flowers are left in the pods, they will not open on their own. Is this true?

Answer
This could be true. The answer to your question depends
on where the flowers came, how long they have been cut,
and have they been processed by a florist. We always
give our birds a boost by prying them open carefully.
The birds in a vase with little to no greenery makes
a beautiful bouquet.  Keep your water fresh and
cut the stems with a sharp knife and put flowers directly
in water. Wish I had them!  Although I am a florist, I never
get flowers!