Protea lacticolor

Protea lacticolor will grow in neutral, well drained soil.

Proteas need very well-drained, nutrient poor soil in a sunny, airy position.  They will not grow well in clay soils and will die if their roots are kept wet. If possible plant on a slope or on slightly elevated mound to prevent drainage problems. In the cooler summer rainfall regions try for a north facing slope. Dig a hole twice the width of the container and one and a half times the height. Do not apply artificial fertilizer or fresh manure to the soil mix. Mulch well around the plant but keep the area around the trunk of the plant clear, as the crown of the plant must be able to dry off. Proteas have a dense network of fine roots just below the surface of the soil and no cultivation should take place below them as disturbance will damage the roots and possibly introduce fungal disease, resulting in the death of the plant. The use of a thick mulch of leaf litter and pine bark/needles will feed the plant, keep the soil cool and discourage weeds. Water well throughout the year but particularly during autumn-winter-spring. Always water in the early morning, preferably before the sun has fully risen.   Tip young plants regularly to encourage branching. Remove the spent flower heads immediately after flowering to encourage a more compact bush.

If growing Protea from seed, see this blog: http://kumbulanursery.co.za/blog/obtaining-and-growing-protea-seeds

For more information about growing and care of Protea go to http://finebushpeople.co.za

Most Protea losses are due to fungal diseases and by the time you notice the plant is in stress, it is usually too late to do anything to save the plant. The best control is preventative: water plants early in the morning; keep soil surface cool by mulching; do not over-fertilise, never use any form of animal manure and remove diseased plants immediately; do not over water in summer and never disturb the roots. Burn any diseased material.