Quick Answer
Bird of paradise plants are tropical and not cold hardy, so they cannot be left outside during freezing winter temperatures. Bird of paradise should be brought indoors or moved to a greenhouse before the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. With proper care indoors over winter, bird of paradise can survive and continue growing year after year.
Can Bird of Paradise Survive Winter Outdoors?
Unfortunately, bird of paradise cannot survive being left outside over winter in most climates. Bird of paradise is native to tropical regions and cannot tolerate any frost or freezing temperatures. Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50 degrees F can damage and potentially kill a bird of paradise plant. The roots are especially vulnerable to cold damage.
If you live in USDA hardiness zones 10-11, you may be able to leave your bird of paradise plant outdoors year-round. These warmer zones rarely see temperatures dip below 30-40 degrees F, so bird of paradise can remain in the ground. Make sure to protect the roots by mulching well around the base of the plant before winter arrives.
Anywhere colder than USDA zone 10, and you should bring your bird of paradise plants indoors or move them into a greenhouse for the winter. A quick freeze can spell disaster for these tropical beauties. When kept as a houseplant during the winter months, bird of paradise can thrive for many years.
How Cold Hardy is Bird of Paradise?
Bird of paradise plants are only cold hardy down to around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Prolonged exposure to colder temperatures can damage their large, tropical leaves. Below 40 degrees F, the roots are in danger of being killed.
Temperatures that freeze the leaves and roots, from around 32-28 degrees F, will be fatal to bird of paradise. The plant cannot recover from frozen, mushy leaves or dead roots. Just one night below freezing can sometimes be enough to kill this tropical plant.
For this reason, bird of paradise really should be overwintered indoors once temperatures start to regularly dip below 50 degrees F day and night. Wait too long, and an unexpected cold snap could spell disaster.
Signs of Cold Damage
How can you tell if your bird of paradise has suffered cold damage? Here are some symptoms:
– Shriveled, dry leaves: The foliage will look dried out and limp if damaged by cold. Leaves may turn brown or black.
– Dead leaves and stems: Severely damaged leaves and stems will turn black and die. The leaves may fall off completely.
– Water-soaked appearance: Very cold temperatures can crystallize the cells in the leaves and turn them to mush. The leaves will look water-logged and translucent.
– Rotten roots: Check under the soil line for any squishy, rotten roots. Healthy roots will be firm and white/tan.
– No new growth: If the plant survives, it may not put out any new leaves for a while as it recovers from cold damage.
– Wilting: The plant may wilt dramatically or even topple over if the root system has been harmed. Wilting from cold damage is difficult to reverse.
Preparing Bird of Paradise for Winter
To safely store your bird of paradise over the winter, you’ll need to take a few steps in advance:
– Gradually move it indoors: Start bringing your bird of paradise plant inside at night when temperatures reach 50-55 degrees F outside. This allows it to transition slowly.
– Inspect for pests: Check the leaves, stems, and roots thoroughly for any sign of insects or disease. Treat any problems before bringing indoors.
– Prune back: Trim off any damaged leaves or dead stems to give the plant a tidy appearance for its winter home indoors.
– Choose a roomy spot: Make sure you have a space large and bright enough to accommodate the plant’s size for several months. Near a sunny window is ideal.
– Stop fertilizing 6 weeks before: Fertilizing stimulates growth that will be vulnerable when the plant moves back outside, so stop feeding by mid-autumn.
Caring for Bird of Paradise Indoors in Winter
With the right care, bird of paradise can continue to grow through the winter while living as a houseplant. Follow these indoor care tips:
Sunlight
Bird of paradise thrives in bright light year-round. Place it in a south or west facing window for the sunniest exposure. Turn the plant periodically so all sides get sunlight. Supplement with a grow light if natural light is limited. The more direct sun, the better.
Temperature
Daytime temperatures of 65-80°F are ideal for indoor bird of paradise plants. At night, they prefer it a bit cooler around 60-65°F. Keep away from drafty windows or doors. Use a portable space heater or move to a warmer room if needed.
Water
Water whenever the top 1-2 inches of soil become dry. Take care not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. The soil should dry out slightly between waterings. Bird of paradise prefers higher humidity, so mist the leaves regularly or use a pebble tray.
Soil
Re-pot in fresh, indoor potting mix if necessary before moving inside. This provides nutrients for the winter months. Make sure the pot has drainage holes and use a saucer to catch excess water.
Fertilizer
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength every 2-3 weeks during the winter. Fertilizing sparingly prevents excessive leaf growth that could be damaged when moved back outside.
Pruning
Prune off any dead or damaged foliage. Avoid pruning off healthy leaves as this can shock the plant. Do not prune for shape while the plant is indoors. Wait until spring or summer for shaping.
Pests
Inspect frequently for pests like mealybugs and scale. Isolate immediately if bugs are found to prevent spread. Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to treat infestations. Maintain air circulation and clean leaves.
When to Move Bird of Paradise Back Outside
Bird of paradise can be moved back outside once all danger of frost has passed. This timing will vary by your local climate and weather patterns:
– Warmer zones (zone 9-10): Begin acclimating the plant in early spring when nights stay above 50 degrees F.
– Cooler zones (zone 5-8): Wait until late spring or early summer when nights are frost free, often some time in May or June.
– Watch the weather forecast and be ready to move the plant back inside if cold temperatures threaten after moving it outdoors.
It’s best to gradually transition bird of paradise back to outdoor conditions:
– Start by placing it in a shady spot outdoors for a few hours at a time.
– Slowly increase the time spent outside over 7-10 days.
– Then begin leaving it outdoors overnight, protecting if frost is expected.
– Finally, restore the plant to its full sun location after 2-3 weeks.
This gradual hardening off reduces the risk of shock from sudden changes in sunlight, temperature, and exposure.
Special Considerations for Caring for Bird of Paradise
When overwintering bird of paradise indoors, keep these care tips in mind:
Light
Bird of paradise needs very bright light from a south or west window when kept indoors. Supplemental lighting may be needed for healthy growth.
Dry Air
Indoor heating can make the air overly dry. Mist leaves frequently and place on a pebble tray with water to increase humidity.
Limited Space
Look for the dwarf cultivar ‘Little Bird’ if you don’t have space for a full-size bird of paradise indoors over winter.
Small Plants
Younger, smaller plants are easier to overwinter than mature specimens. But take care not to overwater seedlings.
Air Circulation
Promote airflow around the leaves with a fan to prevent issues with dust buildup, pests, or diseases when kept indoors.
Overwintering Bird of Paradise in a Greenhouse
If you have an unheated greenhouse or conservatory structure, this can be another great option for overwintering large bird of paradise plants. Follow these tips for success:
Temperature
Use a thermometer and heater to keep the greenhouse above 50 degrees F consistently. Fertilize sparingly to limit cold-sensitive new growth.
Light
Supplement natural winter light with grow lights on cloudy days or far from glass panels. Keep the structure clean to maximize sunlight.
Water
Water when the top few inches of soil become dry. Avoid oversaturation or standing water. Drip irrigation systems work well if installed.
Air Circulation
Prevent mold, fungal disease, and hot/cold pockets by using exhaust fans and placing oscillating fans inside the greenhouse.
Transition Time
Start moving plants into the greenhouse in late summer or autumn before nights get too cold outside. Avoid abrupt location changes.
Backup Plan
Be ready to move plants into a warmer structure if extreme cold threatens the greenhouse. Have frost blankets ready to cover and insulate plants if needed.
Common Problems Overwintering Bird of Paradise
Avoid these common mistakes when trying to overwinter bird of paradise indoors or in a greenhouse:
Insufficient Light
Without enough sunlight, the plant cannot photosynthesize properly. Low light leads to small leaves and leggy growth.
Incorrect Watering
Too much moisture causes fungal issues. Too little water causes wilting. Learn how much your plant needs.
Sudden Temperature Drops
Chilly drafts or improperly managed greenhouse temperatures can freeze or damage plants. Maintain stable temperatures once indoors.
Pest Infestations
Fungus gnats, spider mites, mealybugs, and other pests can thrive on indoor plants. Inspect, isolate, and treat any infestations promptly.
Botrytis and Other Diseases
The humid conditions preferred by bird of paradise also enable fungal diseases. Allow leaves to dry between waterings and increase airflow.
Lack of Nutrients
While fertilizing should be limited, continue providing nutrients at reduced strength through the winter. Use an indoor plant fertilizer.
Repotting Too Late
Repot in fresh soil a few weeks before moving the plant indoors, not after. This prevents shock and provides nutrition for winter.
Pruning Damage
Avoid pruning off healthy leaves just for shape while the plant is indoors. Wait until suitable outdoor growing conditions for major pruning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How cold hardy are bird of paradise plants?
Bird of paradise plants can only tolerate temperatures down to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. They suffer serious damage below 40 degrees and will die after exposure to freezing temperatures of 32 degrees F or below. They are not cold hardy.
What USDA zones can bird of paradise be grown in?
Bird of paradise can only be grown year-round in USDA planting zones 10 and 11. These warmer zones have winters where low temperatures rarely dip below 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit. In zones 8 and 9, mature plants can be overwintered indoors each year.
Should I cut back my bird of paradise before winter?
Pruning is not necessary before overwintering. You can trim off dead leaves or stems, but avoid aggressively cutting back healthy foliage until the plant is back outside in spring or summer.
Where should I keep my bird of paradise in winter?
Bird of paradise does best overwintered in a warm, humid room indoors near a sunny window. A heated greenhouse or conservatory is another good option if available. Avoid drafty areas.
What light does a bird of paradise plant need in winter?
Bright, direct sunlight is essential year-round for bird of paradise. Near a south or west facing window is ideal indoors in winter. Supplement with grow lights if additional light is needed.
Zone | Lowest Average Temperature | Can Remain Outdoors in Winter? |
---|---|---|
10-11 | 30-40° F | Yes |
9 | 20-30° F | No, overwinter indoors |
8 | 10-20° F | No, overwinter indoors |
7 or below | Below 10° F | No, not recommended |
Conclusion
Bird of paradise cannot survive freezing winter temperatures and should be overwintered indoors or in a greenhouse once the thermometer dips to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. With bright light and warm temperatures, bird of paradise will continue growing as a houseplant through the winter months. Avoid overwatering, maintain humidity, and provide limited fertilizer until conditions allow moving the plant back outdoors in spring. With proper care, bird of paradise can thrive for many years as a tropical specimen in warmer climates or a seasonally overwintered container plant.