Orange Bird of Paradise Pot-Bound & Yellowing? Repot Deeper, Not Wider—Use Pebble Drainage

A 2-year-old orange bird of paradise in a 5L pot (32cm tall) in a sunny UK room suddenly yellows from bottom. Drainage holes blocked by roots; soil stays wet 10 days after watering. Repot with pebbles? Bigger pot? Deeper or wider?

Diagnosis: Pot-Bound + Poor Drainage

Roots blocking holes = waterlogged soil = root stress = yellowing. Stunted new leaves confirm pot-binding.

Repotting Guidelines

• Go deeper, not much wider—birds have deep taproots.
• Pot size: 2x current depth and width (exponential step up).
• Add 2" pebbles/gravel at bottom for drainage.
• Use well-draining mix (potting soil + perlite).
• Keep leaves misted for humidity.

Long-Term Reality

Birds of paradise are poor long-term container plants. They'll eventually outgrow any pot. Enjoy while it lasts; plan for eventual donation or greenhouse.