How to care for a large houseplant: the Bird of paradise plant

In this video, indoor houseplant and tropical plant expert Michael Leach of Toronto’s Dynasty Plant Shop takes gardenstead’s host Dan Fox through a brief tutorial of how to care for a Bird of paradise plant (in this case, the Stelitzia nicolai, or giant white bird of paradise).
Here’s what you can learn from this video:
why leaves split on a Bird of paradise plant (don’t worry, it’s perfectly natural)
when and how often you should prune your plant
why misting the leaves of your Bird of paradise plant is important
how cleaning the leaves is good for the plant, and a great way to do a regular health check (also a good time to have conversations with your plant)
how to tell when it’s time to repot a plant - time to do what Michael calls ‘a little soil investigation’
what you should use to fertilize your Bird of paradise plant
how to check for standing water in your plant’s pot and why consistently wet roots are a concern, and can lead to the much-dreaded root rot
Part of our “How to choose a houseplant” series. Check out the other two videos in the series:
How to choose a houseplant: • How to choose a housep...
How to repot a larger houseplant: Ficus audrey: • How to repot a large h...
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[@AveyaC2012]

This is so nice, thank you for sharing! ✨💓

[@gardenstead]

You are so welcome!

[@MiscellaneousMichelle]

💚

[@kashiseverything2259]

👌🏾

[@sheamears9892]

My bop has reached the ceiling, and I am unsure what I should do? Any suggestions?

[@gardenstead]

We recommend cutting back your BOP to restrict it from growing taller. Check out this helpful article we found! gardenforindoor.com/keep-bird-of-paradise-small/

[@1cosmiccupcake]

Can they flower one day? Mine is just as big as the one shown.

[@patricias5122]

If it is a white bird of paradise, it's extremely unlikely it will bloom. But an orange variety will bloom, with proper care.

[@Anomerewina]

…😶 Are Dan & Mike related?!… They could pass for siblings/cousins…