What to Do for an Underwatered Bird of Paradise

When a Bird of Paradise’s leaves show signs of distress, it is important to identify the cause. The plant sends specific signals when it is not receiving enough water, and understanding them is the first step toward correction. This guide will help you diagnose and resolve the problem of an underwatered Bird of Paradise, ensuring its return to health.

Signs of an Underwatered Bird of Paradise

A primary indicator of an underwatered Bird of Paradise is its leaves curling inward from the edges, a defense mechanism to conserve moisture. This curling gives the normally flat leaves a concave or rolled appearance. If the lack of water continues, the edges of the leaves will turn brown and feel crispy to the touch.

Another sign is the yellowing of the foliage, which starts with the lower, older leaves as the plant redirects resources to new growth. The soil can also provide clues; dry soil may shrink and pull away from the sides of the pot. This compaction makes it difficult for the soil to absorb water. A lack of sufficient water during the spring and summer growing season will also result in stunted or no new growth.

Underwatering Versus Overwatering Symptoms

Distinguishing between underwatering and overwatering is important, as the remedies are opposite. An overwatered plant shows widespread yellowing affecting both new and old leaves, not just the lower ones. The leaves may also have brown edges, but they will feel soft or mushy, not crisp.

The clearest signs of overwatering are found at the plant’s base and in the soil. Stems that feel soft and mushy near the soil line are a strong indicator of excessive moisture. The soil will remain consistently soggy, never seeming to dry out between waterings. In advanced cases, a foul, swampy smell from the soil points to root rot, a serious condition caused by roots being deprived of oxygen in saturated soil.

How to Revive an Underwatered Plant

To revive a thirsty Bird of Paradise, give it a thorough, deep watering. Water the plant slowly and evenly, allowing the water to saturate the entire root ball until it flows freely from the pot’s drainage holes. For soil that has become highly compacted, bottom watering is an effective alternative. Place the pot in a basin with several inches of water for about an hour, until the top surface of the soil feels moist.

After soaking, allow all excess water to drain completely and never let the pot sit in a saucer full of water. Once the plant is properly hydrated, you can address the cosmetic damage. Trim away crispy, brown leaf edges with clean scissors, following the leaf’s natural shape. Prune any leaves that are entirely yellow or brown at the base of the stalk to direct the plant’s energy to new growth.

Proper Watering Practices for Prevention

To prevent underwatering, establish a consistent watering routine based on the plant’s needs, not a rigid schedule. The most reliable method is the touch test. Water your Bird of Paradise only when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil feel dry. Insert your finger into the soil to this depth to accurately gauge the moisture level.

A plant’s water requirements are not static and will change throughout the year. Factors like light, temperature, and pot type influence how quickly soil dries. A plant in a bright, warm location or a porous terracotta pot will need water more frequently. You will need to water more often during the active growth periods of spring and summer and reduce the frequency during the fall and winter.