Aulax umbellata

Growing Hints

Aulax – Should be sown in Autumn when the difference between day & night temperatures is about 12°C . The same conditions may be found in spring, when day temperatures are over 22°C and night temperatures are below 10°C. This is important, as Proteaceae will not germinate without this temperature difference.

• Well drained acidic sandy medium produces good results.
• Pre-sowing treatment (eg smoke treatment) of some Proteaceae increases their germination percentage considerably and decreases the losses due to fungus infections.
• If you have problems with seedlings damping off, then we recommend a pre-emergence fungicide called Apron XL

Sow seed immediately after treatment in seed trays or beds. Use a well-drained acidic medium with a pH of about 5.5. This should consist of 2 parts peat or decomposed pine needles, 2 parts coarse river sand (NOT builder’s sand or sea sand), & 1 part perlite or polystyrene pellets. If possible, the sowing medium should be sterilised – this will decrease the chances of fungus infections.

Place seeds approximately 2cm apart & cover with a thin layer of clean river sand. Keep seed trays in semi-shade, & protect against mice, birds, squirrels etc by covering with shade net or wire mesh. Water with a fine rose or spray & do not allow the seed trays to dry out at any time.
DO NOT germinate Proteaceae in hot houses, with bottom heat or under glass.

“I would not recommend using only pumice as the WHC is almost nothing – it is very much like perlite. You will need some form of organic material like peat to hold onto moisture and nutrients”.

As soon as the first true leaves appear, transplant the seedlings into 1 litre bags or pots containing the same soil as above. Choose a cool day or late afternoon to minimise heat stress. Water immediately after transplanting. The seedlings should then be planted out into their permanent position within 6 months.

DO NOT use fertilizer or manure, as the surface root system of the plants will be burned. If you want to feed the plants, use an organic plant food such as a fish or seaweed emulsion. For the commercial production of Proteas, there are some suitable low phosphate slow-release fertilizers available.