How Do I Move A Large Clump of Bird of Paradise?

[hummingbird3d]

I have one customer who just got a house and there is a large clump of bird of paradise in their backyard, it is about 3 feet in diameter and very thick. The customer would still like to keep this plant but in a smaller size. I thought of using a shovel, but that isn't getting through. A pick/mattock was another thought and even using a chain saw to just get through the middle has been considered.

I feel there are lots of plants that could possibly be propagated from this, but I need a bit of help in finding a good solution to accomplish this.

[White Gardens]

I've dealt with cannas through the years but not birds of paradise, though, they are semi-similar plants.

Get a heavy duty spade, and work around the clump 6-8 inches from the outside and just start cutting around the plant. If the roots are tough, then use a large hammer to get the spade through. (that's why a good spade will be needed).

Just keep working around and around and lift a little at a time to get it worked up. Just keep at it, it will eventually come up.

If the clump is too big, then after you've worked around it, take your spade, or even a cordless saw-zaw to cut it in half or quarters in the center to work it up easier.