Question
Have had a BoP for more than 5 years. It's never bloomed but lately the new leaves are browning BEFORE they open up. It's in a room that has the morning east sun but due to the heat lately in TX, I have had the shades down in the morning. I water when the soil is dry to about 2" from top of pot but haven't misted consistently. It's been in the same pot for over 3 yrs and the pot dimensions are 14" diameter X 15 high. I feed periodically with a small amt of Miracle Gro plant food....what am I doing wrong? I want to save this plant and correct the problem before it's too late.  Thanks!

Answer
Hi Gloria,

It is very rare for a Bird of Paradise to bloom indoors unless it is in a solarium or greenhouse.

Failure of new leaves to open up properly can be caused by inadequate light or improper watering. BoP really should be right in front of and close to an uncovered window that provides several hours of direct sun each day. This may be the cause of your plant's problem, but you didn't indicate how long you have been shading the window nor how far the plant is from the window.

If the plant is allowed to dry out too much, then the new leaves are usually dry, papery brown. If the soil is kept too moist, then the new leaves are usually soft and brown or yellow. Assuming your plant is getting proper light, than it should be watered as soon as the top half inch or so of soil feels dry. So under watering is the more likely cause of your plant's problem.

Finally, I will note that using very hard water can also cause new growth damage. If your local tap water is hard, use filtered or distilled instead.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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