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Large Bird of Paradise Leaf Dieback: Fertilizer and Light Needs

Sam in Southern California has a large bird of paradise with leaves turning brown from edges inward. Waters twice weekly, semi-sunny, uses hose-end liquid fertilizer.

Diagnosis

Nick says liquid fertilizers lack micronutrients. Bird of paradise needs balanced granular fertilizer. Light and water are adequate.

Fertilizer Spikes?

No—spikes only feed adjacent roots. Broadcast granular fertilizer evenly for full root coverage.

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