The Bird of Paradise, or Strelitzia, is a striking tropical plant admired for its distinct, colorful blooms. Moving a mature specimen is a significant undertaking because it develops thick, fleshy storage roots that are sensitive to disturbance. These roots store water and nutrients, and damaging them can set back the plant’s growth cycle. Successfully relocating this perennial requires careful planning to minimize stress on the root system.
Essential Preparation Steps
Selecting the correct timing is paramount for the survival of the Bird of Paradise during relocation. The best window for transplanting is typically in late winter or early spring, just before active seasonal growth begins. Moving the plant during this dormant phase allows it to focus energy on root establishment rather than supporting new foliage. In warmer climates, a secondary window exists in the late summer or early fall, provided the plant has several weeks to settle before cold weather arrives.
The new planting location must be prepared thoroughly before the plant is physically dug up. Bird of Paradise plants prefer rich, well-draining soil, so amending the new hole with compost or aged manure provides a better environment for root regeneration. The receiving hole should be dug twice as wide as the anticipated root ball, but the depth must precisely match the plant’s original planting depth.
Preparing the plant by giving it a deep watering two days prior to the move will hydrate the roots and help the soil cling together, creating a stable root ball. Gathering tools such as a sharp, flat-edged spade, a tarp, and a wheelbarrow will streamline the execution phase. Proper site selection, which usually includes a location receiving at least six hours of bright, indirect light, determines the plant’s long-term success.
Executing the Transplant
Moving the Bird of Paradise requires careful attention to preserving the integrity of the root mass. Begin by using a sharp spade to create a wide trench around the base of the plant, starting 18 to 24 inches from the main stem for a mature specimen. Digging this wide perimeter ensures that a large portion of the fleshy, brittle roots remains attached to the root ball.
Once the trench is established, gradually work the spade underneath the root ball, aiming to sever the deeper taproots with clean cuts. The goal is to lift a compact, heavy mass of soil and roots that will sustain the plant during the transition. Placing the root ball onto a tarp or burlap immediately after lifting provides support and prevents the soil from crumbling during transport.
If the plant is overcrowded and requires division, this is the appropriate time to split the rhizomes. Use a clean, sterilized knife or a sharp saw to make smooth, deliberate cuts through the dense root mass. Ensure each new section retains a healthy portion of roots and at least one fan of leaves. Strelitzia tolerates division well, provided the cuts are clean and minimize jagged damage.
In the new hole, position the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding grade, or slightly above it, to account for settling. The crown, where the leaves emerge from the roots, must not be buried beneath the soil, as this can lead to rot. Backfill the hole gently around the roots, taking care not to compress the soil too firmly, which restricts water movement and oxygen access.
Supporting Post-Transplant Recovery
After setting the plant in its new location, the first action is a deep, thorough watering to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets around the roots. This initial saturation helps establish good root-to-soil contact, which is necessary for water uptake. Providing temporary protection from intense, direct afternoon sun for the first few weeks is recommended, especially if the plant was previously shaded.
The Bird of Paradise may exhibit signs of transplant shock, such as wilting or yellowing of older leaves, but this is a common response as the plant redirects energy to root regeneration. Maintaining a consistent watering schedule throughout the first year supports the establishment of new feeder roots. Patience is required, as the plant may take several months to display visible new leaf growth while focusing its resources underground.