Description
This kit includes Protea caffra subsp. kilimandscharica seeds (5 seeds) + 01 Smoke Seed Primer Disc.
Smoke Seed Primer is ideal for treating seeds of Proteas. Many wildflower seeds are dormant and need very specific conditions for germination. The smoke seed primer solution contains a combination of natural substances that overcome dormancy and stimulate seed germination. The degree of germination success varies with the species, but on average, treated seeds give at least twice the number of seedlings that untreated seeds do. (Source: proteaseeds)
Protea caffra subsp. kilimandscharica, commonly known as the Kilimanjaro sugarbush, is a subspecies of evergreen shrub or small tree native to the high-altitude montane and subalpine zones of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya in East Africa. It is known for its distinctive, showy, goblet-shaped flower heads, which are typically pink to deep red and surrounded by colorful bracts. Adapted to a harsh environment with rocky slopes, volcanic soils, and significant temperature fluctuations, this plant features thick, leathery leaves that help it conserve water. It is a resilient species that plays a key ecological role in its high-elevation habitat.
Germination Guide
🌍 East-Central and East Tropical African Mountains, Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya, 2300-3800 meters altitude
Moderate
Protea caffra subsp. kilimandscharica, known as the Kilimanjaro Protea or Alpine Sugarbush, is an endemic high-altitude shrub from Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya (2300-3800m) in the Proteaceae family. Seeds benefit significantly from smoke primer treatment to overcome dormancy and increase germination rates to at least twice that of untreated seeds, while also reducing fungal infection losses. This subspecies is adapted to cool, high-altitude moorland environments with significant day-night temperature fluctuations.
Germination
Germination time
Expect germination in
19 – 90 days
Temperature
Min 5°C
Ideal 15°C
Max 25°C
🌡️ Temperature alternation recommended
— Best time to sow in autumn or spring when difference between day and night temperatures is about 12°C. Temperature fluctuation is critical for successful germination. Minimum 10°C difference between day and night temperatures required.
Substrate moisture
💧💧 High
Seed Pre-treatment
-
💧
Soaking — 24 hours
Immerse one Smoke Seed Primer disk in 50ml water at room temperature. Soak seeds in smoke-water solution for 24 hours. One disc treats up to 100 seeds.
-
🔥
Smoke/Fire treatment
Smoke Seed Primer disk used to treat seeds before planting. Smoke treatment overcomes dormancy and stimulates germination, increasing germination rates to at least twice that of untreated seeds.
-
📋
Additional notes
After smoke-water soak, dip seed into fungicide solution such as Thiram before planting to prevent fungal infections.
Substrate & Container
Recommended substrate
2 parts coarse river sand, 2 parts peat or decomposed pine needles, 1 part vermiculite or perlite. pH about 5.5. Well-drained, acidic, nutrient-poor soil mixture. Sterilize medium with boiling water before use.
Recommended container
500 ml plastic seedling bag or shallow seed tray (6cm deep x 17cm x 24cm recommended)
Growing Tips
Keep seedlings in semi-shade with 30% shade-cloth protection. Water with fine rose spray and never allow substrate to dry out during germination. Use rainwater if possible; avoid chlorinated or brackish water. Water early morning only. Once true leaves appear, expose to full sun. Protect from mice, birds, squirrels and insects with shade cloth or wire mesh. Germination is staggered over several weeks; monitor seed trays every 5 days after first signs of germination. Do NOT use bottom heat or hot-house conditions as these promote fungal infection. Avoid any cultivation or disturbance around plant roots. Sterilize soil with boiling water before use to eliminate fungal pathogens.
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.