Obtaining and growing Protea seeds.

I first collected my own seeds from proteas in my garden that had died but only about six out of a hundred germinated, so I have decided that collecting my own seed is an option but notoriously unreliable. Protea seeds can be bought from among others, Kirstenbosch Seed Room, Fine Bush People, Silverhill Seeds and Bidorbuy. Remember to order smoke primer when you buy your seeds. If you live in a summer rainfall area, be sure to choose varieties that are suitable to your area (See http://kumbulanursery.co.za/blog/proteaceae-species-for-summer-rainfall-...).

Ideally, the soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of 5.5. A mixture of coarse river sand, peat or decomposed pine needles and vermiculite or perlite in a ratio of 2:2:1 is suggested. As I was unable to acquire coarse river sand or decomposed pine needles, I used finely chipped pine bark, compost and vermiculite. The soil should then be sterilised to kill weed seeds, insect larvae, snail and slug eggs and fungal spores. The simplest method is to drench the soil mix with boiling water. Alternatively, saturate the soil with a fungicidal solution of 40ml of Jeyes fluid to 10 liters of water, but this must be done two weeks before planting the seeds. Seed trays can be used but 500ml black planting bags (one for each seed) are better as there is less chance of disturbing the roots.

The seeds should be planted to a depth equal to their size and watered well. Use good quality water for the seeds. Salty water, alkaline water or water containing chemicals such as chlorine should be avoided, as well as dam or river water which may contain fungal spores. Rain water is probably the best. Place the seeds in a semi-shaded position and protect them from rodents, birds and insects. A piece of 30% shade cloth is ideal. Water lightly with a fine spray in the early morning and during the day if necessary - do not allow them to dry out at any time. Germination will occur between 1 and 3 months.

When germination occurs, the cotyledons will appear first, followed by the true leaves. Although they can be exposed to full sunlight at this time, it is probably best to keep them protected from insects for some time after germination.

If the process above seems far too complicated, visit the website for Fine Bush People (http://finebushpeople.co.za). They have a nifty Protea starter pack including soil and seeds which you can grow in an egg box. This is a far easier solution for the home gardener, will provide enough plants for most gardens and can be a fun project for the family.