Care of Proteaceae
Definition:
Protea and their immediate family, are flowering plants that are mainly found in the southern hemisphere. The species from South Africa (Fynbos) and Australia (Waratah) are the most well-known in cultivation and include Protea, Leucospermum, Leucadendron, Mimetes, Banksia and Telopea.
They are very popular for their exuberant and specially shaped flowers. These are also often used in flower arranging.
The plants naturally grow as small shrubs to small trees on generally very poor soil, in full sun.
Since they come from the Southern Hemisphere, the flowering period may differ from our summers.
Location:
Proteas like a sunny spot in the garden. But too high daytime temperatures and high humidity are less well tolerated. Good ventilation is recommended. Especially under glass or in a veranda, this can be a problem.
Shorter periods of cold are generally not a problem. In the winter period they can be kept cool and light, in a place that is not too humid.
Soil type:
Although there are differences in what each species of the family prefers, the general rule is that they need an acidic (PH 6), sandy, very well-drained, poor soil. The root system of the plants is set up to remove all phosphorus from the soil. However, if there is too much in the soil, the plant will poison itself.
Therefore, regular garden soil (very rich) or standard potting soil (pre-fertilized) is not suitable.
A mixture of non-pre-fertilized heather soil with sand and stone (or perlite) is a suitable mixture.
Watering :
In the growing season, Protea drink plenty of water. The water is quite acidic or neutral. Certainly do not keep calcareous, as this will increase the pH, and ensure that the plant can no longer absorb sufficient nutrients. Despite the need for a lot of water, they absolutely do not like wet feet or stagnant water. The potting soil must be well-draining so that sufficient oxygen can reach the roots. Root rot is a risk in these plants.
During the dormant period, the plants need moderate to light watering.
Fertilization:
Although the Proteas need very few nutrients, if there is a clear lack of nutrition, a light fertilizer based on nitrogen and potassium can be given once a year. (no phosphorus) This is best done in the form of liquid fertilizer. The dosage may be 1/2 or 1/3 of the recommended dose on the package.
Prune:
The only pruning required is the removal of old flower buds. Because these grow at the end of the stems, the dormant buds will sprout below and provide branching.
Be careful, the dormant buds die when the stem lignifies. Pruning to the lignified part will cause that branch to die.
