Description
This kit includes Protea acuminata seeds (10 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 acuminata, also known by the common name black-rim sugarbush, is a flowering shrub belonging to the genus Protea and the family Proteaceae. This species is endemic to South Africa, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world. It grows as an upright shrub or small tree, reaching up to two meters in height.
The plant is characterized by its linear, smooth, and flat leaves and its small flower heads. These flower heads bloom from late winter into spring, typically from June to September in the Southern Hemisphere, with a peak in July and August. While the exact pollinators are unknown, the species is monoecious, meaning each flower has both male and female parts.
The adult plants may be killed by fire, but the seeds, which are dispersed by wind, can survive and regenerate the population.
Germination Guide
🌍 South Africa, Cape Floristic Region (endemic)
Difficult
Protea acuminata, known as the blackrim sugarbush, is a South African species from the Proteaceae family endemic to the Cape Floristic Region. Seeds exhibit dormancy and require smoke treatment with the Smoke Seed Primer disc to significantly increase germination rates. Pre-sowing treatment with smoke primer and fungicide application considerably reduces fungal losses and improves seedling establishment.
Germination
Germination time
Expect germination in
21 – 90 days
Temperature
Min 13°C
Ideal 22°C
Max 29°C
🌡️ Temperature alternation recommended
— Best time to sow is in autumn or spring when day and night temperature difference is approximately 12°C. Ideal conditions: day temperatures 22°C or above, night temperatures below 10°C. Temperature oscillation is critical for Proteaceae germination.
Substrate moisture
💧 Medium
Sowing depth
Lightly covered
Seed Pre-treatment
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💧
Soaking — 24 hours
Immerse one disc of Smoke Seed Primer in 50ml of water at room temperature. Soak seeds in smoke-water solution for 24 hours. One disc treats approximately 100 large seeds.
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🔥
Smoke/Fire treatment
Smoke seed primer treatment increases germination percentage considerably and decreases losses due to fungal infections. Treated seeds typically produce at least twice the number of seedlings compared to untreated seeds.
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📋
Additional notes
After smoke-water soaking, dip seeds into a fungicide solution such as Thiram before planting. Alternatively, soak seeds in hot water at 50°C for 30 minutes, then dust lightly with Thiram fungicide.
Substrate & Container
Recommended substrate
Well-drained acidic soil mixture with pH 5.5: 2 parts coarse river sand, 2 parts peat or decomposed pine needles, 1 part perlite or vermiculite. Sterilize substrate with boiling water if possible to eliminate fungal pathogens.
Recommended container
500ml plastic seedling bags
Growing Tips
Keep seedlings in semi-shade under 30% shade-cloth, protecting against mice, birds, squirrels and insects. Water daily with fine rose spray using rainwater if possible, but allow soil to dry before evening to reduce fungal infection. Plant seeds to depth equal to seed size and cover with thin layer of clean river sand. Once true leaves appear, gradually expose to full sun. Never use bottom heat, glass covering, or hothouses. Do not allow seedlings to dry out during germination. Maintain moderate substrate moisture at all times. Transplant into 1-litre containers when first true leaves emerge. Avoid alkaline, brackish or high-salt water. Seed trays should be kept in protected seedhouse with proper drainage and aeration.
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