Growing the strelitzia, or bird of paradise flower, can be very frustrating to one who knows little about the plant. Namely for one major reason: the strelitzia does not produce flowers until it is around four or five years old. This is why many people tend to instead buy the plants from nurseries, rather than try to grow them from scratch. Though, if impatience is not a problem in your case, it can be done. Some great tips to start out with, are the issues of watering. Through the warmer seasons, strelitzia needs need have constant moisture in the soil, however, in fall and winter, the soil should be allowed to dry out, as it would naturally in those seasons. Also, if you live in Utah, or other norther areas, and plan to plant a strelitzia outdoors, don't do it. Cold temperatures will kill your plant in the winter. It's best to keep your baby bird of paradise indoors if you live in colder climates. Your strelitzia also needs to be fed bi-weekly during the spring and summer months, but only once a month, during fall and winter. Your strelitzia also need plenty of sunlight, as well, and while the plant is still new to your home, begin watering it on a strict schedule. Once the schedule is established, root growth will be fully matured. Then you can relax a little with the watering, but be sure to keep everything moist, all the same.