How to Raise Exotic Proteas

Proteas are one of the most stunning tropical flowers and you can grow them in your home garden with little difficulty. Native to South Africa and Australia, they are widely cultivated on the island of Maui, where they like the climate of the lower elevations of Mount Haleakala. If you live in a climate that is frost-free, such as the southern United States or Hawaii, you can grow proteas outdoors year-round. Otherwise, it is wise to plant them in pots and move them indoors when fall arrives.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Protea plant(s) from a nursery or catalog
• Potting mix
• Gypsum, fir bark, forest humus or peat moss
• Attractive pot(s)
• Mulch
• Water

How to Begin With Proteas

1. Mix your potting mix with about one cup of gypsum, fir bark, forest humus or peat moss for each gallon of potting mix.

2. Fill your purchased pot about half full with your potting mix.

3. Remove your protea from its nursery pot, making sure to leave the rootball intact.

4. Place your protea into the pot and then backfill with the remainder of potting mix, tapping it down gently around the base of the plant.

5. Water your plant well and then add a thick layer of organic mulch or compost on top of the soil. This will help to keep the roots cool, which is a condition proteas prefer.

6. Keep newly-transplanted proteas watered about every three days, but do not keep them too wet.

Tips & Warnings

• Proteas prefer large pots, so choose one that is at least two gallons in size.
• Proteas prefer to live in soil that is slightly dry, so be sure not to overwater them.
• If you have a southwest-facing slope or a southeast-facing slope with good drainage, this would be the perfect location for your protea. If you grow them in cooler locations, you will achieve more intense colors.
• Protea require plenty of direct sunlight for at least six hours a day.
• They prefer open locations with good airflow.
• Young plants respond well if you provide shade for them during the hottest part of the day.
• Cut flowers can last up to two weeks in water.
• Protect proteas from frost and cold temperatures.
• Do not overwater proteas.
• Avoid dry fertilizers as they can burn your plant.