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Bird of paradise, also known as Strelitzia reginae. To keep bird of paradise in good growth condition and beautiful shape, reasonable pruning and meticulous care are essential. The following will elaborate on the pruning methods of bird of paradise and the key points of care after pruning.
The pruning of bird of paradise should be carried out in the growing season, usually in spring and autumn. At this time, the plant grows vigorously and can recover and grow faster after pruning. Avoid pruning under extreme temperature conditions in winter and summer to avoid affecting the normal growth of the plant.
Prepare a sharp and sterilized pair of scissors or pruning shears to ensure a neat cut during pruning and reduce the risk of harm and infection to the plant. Timely cut off the withered and diseased leaves of bird of paradise to avoid the spread of diseases and the waste of nutrients.
For overly dense leaves, prune appropriately to enhance the ventilation and light transmission inside the plant. Overly long branches will affect the overall shape and aesthetics of the plant and can be pruned short. After the flowers wither, cut off the residual flowers in time to avoid excessive consumption of nutrients.
For leaf pruning, cut from the base of the petiole. Be careful not to damage healthy leaves. The pruning of branches should be carried out according to the required length and shape. The cut should be smooth and at a 45-degree angle.
The pruned bird of paradise needs appropriate lighting but should avoid direct sunlight. It can be placed in a brightly lit place indoors, such as near a window but avoiding direct sunlight.
Bird of paradise likes a warm and humid environment. The suitable growth temperature is 18 - 24℃. After pruning, maintain the stability of the ambient temperature and avoid drastic fluctuations in temperature. At the same time, increase the air humidity, which can be achieved by spraying water around the plant or using a humidifier. After pruning, bird of paradise has a relatively reduced demand for water, but the soil still needs to be kept moist. When watering, follow the principle of "water when dry and wet", and avoid water accumulation leading to root rot. After pruning, bird of paradise needs to supplement nutrients to promote the growth of new branches and leaves.
A thin liquid fertilizer can be applied once every 1 - 2 weeks, mainly using a nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium compound fertilizer, but the fertilization concentration should not be too high to avoid burning the roots. The pruned wound is vulnerable to the invasion of germs and pests, so strengthen the prevention and control of pests and diseases. Regularly inspect the plant. Once pests and diseases are found, take corresponding prevention and control measures in time, such as spraying insecticides or fungicides.
The pruning of bird of paradise is an important maintenance work. Reasonable pruning needs to be carried out according to the growth condition of the plant and personal aesthetic needs. After pruning, through scientific care methods, create a suitable growth environment for bird of paradise so that it can thrive.