How to propagate "Smooth Sailing"
The editor provides everyone with some small experiences on how to propagate "Smooth Sailing" and the method for quick root formation through cutting. Next, the editor of this site will introduce to you.
Also known as "Smooth Sailing," the white bird of paradise is always identified as such in the flower market because its blooms resemble white sailing boats, which are very beautiful and have good symbolism. Many people like to keep a pot of it and grow it at home, but after some time, the leaves turn black and wither, and it fails to bloom. It is relatively difficult to cultivate well. In fact, as long as you avoid "4 fears" in home care, its leaves can remain lush and bloom every year, easily producing beautiful white sailing boats in the summer and autumn seasons.
1. Fear of direct sunlight
Many people place their white bird of paradise in direct sunlight, which causes the leaf edges to turn yellow over time, and eventually leads to burnt leaves, with the entire plant not thriving. In fact, the white bird of paradise is a plant that prefers semi-shade, and it can easily have problems if placed in direct sunlight. I keep mine under a flower stand, and the leaves grow lush and large, and they bloom normally. So, when growing it at home, it should be exposed to light but not to direct sunlight. It can receive a couple of hours of light before 9 am or be placed under a large tree or flower stand to receive some scattered light. It cannot be without light or exposed to direct sunlight.
2. Fear of a large pot
"Smooth Sailing" has a characteristic that requires the roots to fill the pot before the leaves grow abundant and the flowers bloom. Therefore, when growing it at home, avoid using a large pot and try to use a small one. Generally, when repotting, only go one size larger than the original pot. Repot every two years or so, allowing the roots to fill the pot. Ensuring sufficient water and fertilizer will help it grow leaves and bloom quickly. If the pot is too large, it can lead to root rot due to poor ventilation and prolonged wetness from watering. Even if the roots do not rot, the plant will grow slowly as it continues to grow roots and leaves. Even if new leaves grow, they will be small.
3. Fear of water deficiency
The roots of "Smooth Sailing" are quite thick, with almost no fine roots. If it lacks water at home, some of the roots will dry up and die, and the leaves of the entire plant will wilt. When you notice the leaves wilting, it means the plant is severely lacking water. At this point, watering will not restore it, and it will remain wilted for about a week. Therefore, try not to let it lack water at home. If it lacks water occasionally, normal watering can restore the plant's vitality in a week, although some bottom leaves may show slight burn. Make sure to water promptly when the topsoil dries out, using well-draining soil. I once bought a pot from the market for two dollars because the entire plant was wilted. The seller was going to throw it away, but now it is growing very well.
4. Fear of poor ventilation
The white bird of paradise is very prone to root rot. If the roots rot, you will notice black edges on the leaves, and if it continues to worsen, the entire plant will die. Therefore, it is essential to ensure good ventilation at home. Even with well-draining soil, poor ventilation will cause the soil to dry slowly, leading to root rot. Place it in a well-ventilated area, such as near a frequently used door, in a well-ventilated corridor, or near a window.
To grow white bird of paradise well, you must avoid these four fears, place it in a well-ventilated position, use a small pot with well-draining soil, not repot too often, water according to a reasonable method, and avoid letting it wilt due to lack of water. Place it in a spot with scattered light. As long as the temperature in your home does not drop below 10 degrees Celsius, it will not have any problems, and the leaves will remain lush. During the blooming season, it will naturally produce small white sailing boats.
This article shares the complete introduction on how to propagate "Smooth Sailing" and the method for quick root formation through cutting for everyone to learn and understand!