Whilst Proteas are relatively easy to grow, a little inside knowledge makes it even easier, and your results more satisfying. The basics section will give you just that, but here are some quick answers to the more common questions.

Troubleshooting

My Waratah (Telopea) has damaged leaves, showing signs of blistering and trails over the leaves.

Why won't my Protea flower?

My Waratah (Telopea) is not growing.

My King Protea has red spots on the leaves.

My Protea's buds form but why won't they open?

Why did my Protea die?

Maintenance

Should I water my Protea?

Is pruning necessary? When do I prune?

What should I feed my Proteas in the garden?

Should I feed my Proteas if I grow them in a tub?

Suitability

Can I grow a Protea in an old flower bed?

In the Southern Hemisphere will Proteas grow on a Southern facing fence or wall?

Will any Protea grow in semi shade?

Can I grow any Protea in clay soils?

Miscellaneous

I live in a frosty area, when is the best time of year to plant?

Can I collect viable seed from Protea?

I have an established Protea plant. Can I move it?

My Waratah (Telopea) has damaged leaves, showing signs of blistering and trails over the leaves.
This is most probably leaf miner. Ask you nursery to recommend a systemic (absorbed into the plant) insecticide.

Why won't my Protea flower?
Some possible reasons:
 -It's too young - some take 3 years, the King up to 6 years.
 -It's in the shade - Proteas need sun all day to flower.
 -It's not had enough water during bud formation so buds die.

My Waratah (Telopea) is not growing.
Waratahs prefer some protection from the wind and sun, and need watering during summer. Feed during early Spring with slow release native fertiliser or blood and bone. If your soil is clay see the advice below for treating it.

My King Protea has red spots on the leaves.
There are many causes of this, here are some possible solutions:
 -feed the plant with slow release fertiliser for "natives" in Spring.
 -ensure the plant is watered during summer.
 -the plant should be exposed to sunlight all day.
 -avoid clay soils / follow the advice below for treating the soil.

My Protea's buds form but why won't they open?
Some possible reasons:
 -With some varieties (for example Protea grandiceps), the flowers don't ever appear to open.
 -With some varieties such as Protea repens, the flower buds close after flowering and it is possible to miss seeing the flower.
 -Insufficient water during bud formation can cause buds not to open.
 -Frost killed the bud.

Why did my Protea die?
Some possible reasons:
 -overwatering of mature plants.
 -unsuitable plant for the condition.
 -presence of root rot fungi (treat with 'Fongarid', do not replant Proteas in this spot).
 -unsuitable soil; do not use mushroom compost or added fertiliser in the garden.

Should I water my Protea?
 All varieties should be watered well during their first 2 summers. After that, those shown on the label as drought resistant can be watered much less e.g. monthly during dry periods. If Proteas are being grown in tubs water daily. See section on watering in the basics.

Is pruning necessary? When do I prune?
Yes. Proteas can become untidy if let go. Cut the flowers each year and give the plant a good tidy up. It's easy, check out how in our step by step guide to pruning.

What should I feed my Proteas in the garden?
Proteas grown in most gardens do not need feeding. In very sandy, poor soils addition of compost and a liquid feed such as Maxicrop may be beneficial.

Should I feed my Proteas if I grow them in a tub?
Yes, a low phosphorus fertiliser is recommended e.g. Osmocote "For all Australian Natives and Proteas". Apply in Spring & Autumn.

Can I grow a Protea in an old flower bed?
Only if no phosphorus fertiliser has been previously used. Proteas are best grown away from plants requiring regular feeding.

In the Southern Hemisphere will Proteas grow on a Southern facing fence or wall?
No, there is not enough sun to produce flowers and leucadendrons will not colour.

Will any Protea grow in semi shade?
Some Proteaflora plants will tolerate semi shade. See our full variety listing to find out which varieties can be grown in these areas.

Can I grow Protea in clay soil?
Certain varieties tolerate "heavy soil". These are noted as such in our full variety listing. When planting, prepare the soil by digging in gypsum and home made compost (no added fertilisers). Mound planting site to aid drainage. Use mulch and do not overwater after the first year of establishment.

I live in a frosty area, when is the best time to plant?
Plant in Spring after you would expect the last moderate frost (September or October). Be sure to select varieties noted as frost tolerant on our full variety listing.

Can I collect viable seed from Protea?
Yes, however this is difficult and not always successful. Flower heads must be left on the plant for 9-12 months after flowering for seed to develop. Cut and then dry the flower head after this time. Seeds may be found in the base of the flowerhead. Plant out seeds as soon as possible in a coarse propagation mix. Seeds from the Protea genus germinate in 6-10 weeks.

I have an established Protea. Can I move it?
No, Proteas do not have a dormant period and dislike root disturbance. If you still want to try, here are some pointers to improve your chances of success:
 -move the plant during winter.
 -prune the plant, reducing it by about one third.
 -take as large a rootball as possible.
 -water well into new position. Keep soil damp and use mulch.