How to get potted Bird of Paradise to flourish?

[John57]

This Bird of Paradise planted in the pot has never flowered or looked healthy. We were told it would do well in a pot. 

 

We fed it Seasol and we tried Epsom salts but no response from this Bird. We had it outside then under the patio. No luck so far.

Unsure what to do.

[Jason]

Hi @John57,

Could you please let us know where you are based and what's the growing conditions for your plant. 

The Bunnings guide How to grow and prune a bird of paradise should have everything you need to help ensure the plant flourishes. I note it should have a warm and sunny position but it looks like it could be on a covered patio? It also looks like a very small pot for what can grow into a reasonably large plant.  

Could you please provide a little more detail. We are certainly keen to assist. 

Jason

[John57]

Jason

I’m in Mernda Melbourne 3754.

Its a south facing front porch. Protected from the strong north winds. It’s 1m below street level.

It gets direct sun only in winter afternoons.

John

[JacobZ]

Hi @John57,

Thanks for the extra detail, John. It really helps to get a clear idea of what your Bird of Paradise is dealing with. Based on the photo and what you've shared, there are a few reasons it might be struggling, and some practical steps you can take to turn things around.

The biggest issue is likely the lack of sunlight. Birds of Paradise need a good amount of direct sun, ideally at least four to six hours a day, to grow well and flower. Since your plant only gets direct sun during winter afternoons, that’s probably not enough light for it to thrive. These are sun lovers at heart and just won’t perform without plenty of it.

Another possible factor is the pot itself. If the plant has been in the same pot for a long time, it may have become rootbound, which restricts its ability to grow and absorb nutrients. Alternatively, if the pot doesn't drain well, water could be pooling at the bottom, leading to root stress or even rot. It's worth checking the roots; if they’re tightly circling the edge of the soil or seem mushy and dark, it’s time to repot. When you do, go for a slightly larger pot with good drainage holes and use a free-draining premium potting mix, preferably one with added sand or perlite to keep it light.

As for feeding, Seasol is a good tonic for root health and general plant condition, but it doesn’t provide the full range of nutrients needed for flowering. Epsom salts can be helpful in small doses if there’s a magnesium deficiency, but they’re not a cure-all. Instead, switch to a balanced slow-release fertiliser such as this Scotts Osmocote Pots, Planters & Indoors Controlled Release Fertiliser, which will provide the required nutrients for your plant to thrive.

Once you've moved the plant to a sunnier spot and given it a good repot and feed, it may still take some time to bounce back. Bird of Paradise plants can be slow to respond, especially if they’ve been under stress for a while, but they are long-lived and tough once established. With the right care and more light, you should start seeing stronger leaves and eventually some flowers.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob