Giant Bird Of Paradise - Leaves Are Turning Brown (not Just Edges) - Knowledgebase Question

Chandler, AZ

Question by carlredman
July 16, 2002

I live near Phoenix AZ and I planted two Giant Bird of Paradise trees approx. 6 ft tall behind my pool against a wall. New growth is progressing, however most of the leaves start out browning on the edges than begin to curl up. The temp here reaches 115 degrees during the summer and its sunny every day. I water the plant with a slow drip system for 20 minutes, 3 times a day. I fertilize it once in 6 months with 6-6-6. I have noticed some very nice BOP trees at resorts here in AZ. Can you give me any advise to make my BOP thrive as they do at the resorts.

Answer from NGA
July 16, 2002

Uploaded by plantladylin The plant is better off expending its energy on establishing a root system, rather than putting on new foliage. I'd suggest fertilizing in the spring. You didn't mention when you transplanted, but if it was recently, it is very stressful to plants to establish during the summer. Spring or fall is a better time. Finally, if you haven't already done so, put a thick layer of compost or mulch around the base of the plant to reduce moisture loss and soil temperatures, which will help the roots. Leave a few inches around the stem/trunk bare, as you don't want moist mulch rubbing up against the plant tissue. I hope this information helps!  (If nothing else, remind to water slowly, deeply and as infrequently as possible!) grow, which is stressful, especially in the summer's heat. The plant is better off expending its energy on establishing a root system, rather than putting on new foliage. I'd suggest fertilizing in the spring. You didn't mention when you transplanted, but if it was recently, it is very stressful to plants to establish during the summer. Spring or fall is a better time. Finally, if you haven't already done so, put a thick layer of compost or mulch around the base of the plant to reduce moisture loss and soil temperatures, which will help the roots. Leave a few inches around the stem/trunk bare, as you don't want moist mulch rubbing up against the plant tissue. I hope this information helps!  (If nothing else, remind to water slowly, deeply and as infrequently as possible!)

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