Marianne's Response
Overgrown Bird of Paradise
We have moved into a new home that had no landscape maintenance done! There is a very large Bird of Paradise 8’ in diameter, 5’ high that has taken over. 70% of the plant has dead or dying leaves. It is so thick I can hardly get to the stems! How do I prune this monster to get it under control? I need to limit the size and or divide and replant in another location. Where to start? Thank you
Posted by Richard Wertman on May 3, 2022
Marianne's Response
Wow - that is a monster indeed and I never think anyone should put up with ugly plants when help is nearby. First cut into the healthy green section and remove a section of growing plant. This will be your fresh start plant. Then just dig out - using heavy equipment if necessary the roots and foliage of the rest of the plant. Once the hulk is gone you can replant the section you saved into the same spot after improving the soil a bit. Good luck and Keep Growing, Marianne Binetti
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