Question
Hi Will:
I just bought a beautiful 6 foot bird of paradise (in a 14" pot) and now I'm
nervous that it won't do well in it's new home.  I would like to know how I can
spoil this plant and give it everything it needs to thrive and be happy.    
Couple of things come to mind:
1.  I shopped around a lot before I found a bird of paradise that didn't have
too many "splits" in the leaves.  One store owner informed me that the splits
will always happen in the NYC b/c the air is dry and not as moist as say,
Florida.  Another salesperson at a different plant store told me that the leaves
only split to protect its leaves from being torn off (e.g., in windy situations or
rough handling).  I understand that not every leaf will be perfect, but what
can I do to prevent it most.  One plant store owner suggested that I spray the
plant often.  Do you agree?
2.  What type of fertilizer should I use and how often.  I would like to know a
specific brand that I can just order from the internet.  
3.  I was told to water the plant 1 x every 14 days.  Approximately how many
cups of water -- 14" pot diameter and height, plant is approx 6 feet tall.  
Ther are about 15 large to medium leaves and 12 meduim to small leaves.
4.  Currently it is placed in part direct sun and part shade (with indirect
sunlight).  My apartment is generally pretty sunny; but if i had to picl should i
place it in more or less direct sunlight?
Thanks so much!  I look forward to your answers!!
Best,
Winnie


Answer
Hi Winnie,

I understand your desire to do everything possible to "spoil" your new plant. I will help you with that, but bear in mind that many things are outside your control, plants are perishable, and perfection is impossible to attain, especially outside the greenhouse.

1. In nature, the leaves do tear easily so that the wind does not uproot the entire plant. Nature is very smart that way and has survival in mind, not appearance. Your apartment is probably not very windy, but the leaves are thin and tear easily for other reasons. This often occurs as the new leaves are unfurling. They sometimes get "stuck" and tear in the process of unfurling. Keeping the air humid helps to limit this type of tearing. Misting daily does very little to raise humidity. Having a humidifier running in close proximity does far more, but I am not sure it is worth it just to have fewer leaf tears.

2. Fertilizer is vastly over-rated and your plant has more than enough nutrients and timed released fertilizer it to last for at least a year. After that, any complete fertilizer that contains trace elements as well as macro nutrients will do just fine, but dilute it to half strength. I like Foliage Pro made by Dyna-Gro.

3. You cannot water your plant by the calendar, as convenient as that might be. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out and then slowly add enough water until a small amount trickles through the bottom drainage holes. It will probably take 1-2 weeks for it to dry out again, but that varies with temperature, light, and humidity. Use your finger to tell you when it is time to water. Watch the saucer under the pot to tell you how much.

4. A location with mostly bright indirect light and a few hours of direct sun is best for a White Bird. Sounds like that is what your have.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]