Care of your Proteas
The Protea Family
The Proteaceae are a family of flowering plants predominantly distributed in the Southern Hemisphere. The family comprises 83 genera with about 1,660 known species. Well-known genera include Protea, Banksia, Grevillea, Hakea, Telopea, and Leucadendron. All of these grow well in the central highlands of New South Wales.
Soil Type
Proteas prefer well drained acidic soil with pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Some varieties will tolerate a higher pH. If planting in clay soils, prepare the soil by digging in Gypsum and a native organic compost, do not use mushroom compost. Generally, try to plant in a raised mound for improved drainage. Fertilise with a native slow release like Osmocote annually in Spring at about half the recommended rate.
Planting
Dig a hole about twice the size of the pot, remove the plant and gently tease out the roots. Plant in a raised mound about 10cm above ground level and firm the soil around the root ball. Water well immediately after planting. A compost of crushed sandstone is also recommended.
Protea Pot Plants
Protea can be successfully grown in pot, however, do not use self-watering pots or saucers as the soil needs to be free draining. Use native potting mix and choose a pot about twice the size of the current pot. Water well immediately after planting.
Watering
Once established, Proteas are draught tolerant. For the first year after planting the soil should be kept moist, thereafter, water in dry conditions. If the plant is growing vigorously and flowering well, you have got the water balance under control.
Pruning
Proteas can be shaped to suit your garden style. Pruning is best done after flowering, by cutting the old flower stems back to 10 – 15cm. Remover untidy branches and favour strong new stems.