Grevillea Bronze Rambler

Culture:

Grevilleas are best planted in spring, after the last frost. In warmer climates, planting in October is better. They prefer soil with an acidic to neutral pH, sandy, gritty, loamy, or slightly clayey, but very well-drained and not too rich. The presence of limestone in the soil causes yellowing of the foliage, chlorosis, which weakens the bush until it eventually dies. This condition can be corrected by regularly adding iron in its chelated form (sequestrene). In regions where the soil and subsoil are limestone, it is recommended to dig a large hole of 60 cm (23.6 in) in all directions, filled with ericaceous soil or compost and non-limestone sand.

Grevilleas are drought-resistant plants once well established: monitor watering in summer may be necessary during the first 2 years, but will become optional or even unnecessary afterwards. In the ground, they appreciate a thick layer of mulch not too close to the base. Use wood chips or grass clippings. It is recommended to use a very low phosphorus fertilizer, as it can decrease the plant's drought resistance by destroying the thick root hairs that develop just below the soil surface. An N-P-K fertilizer with proportions of 18-2-10 is well-suited.

In pots choose Grevillea species and varieties with low growth. Use lightweight, well-drained potting soil that remains moist. We recommend the following mix: 60% pine bark, 20% coarse river sand, 10% fine river sand, and 10% clay soil for its water retention capacity. The pH should be 7 or less.

Insects and Diseases:

Grevilleas can have black leaf spots, caused by a rarely fatal fungus: a fungicidal treatment will eliminate it.

Rotting of the collar can also be seen, a deadly disease, also caused by fungi that develop in moist and warm soil. Avoid burying the plant's collar, which should be exposed to air. Avoid watering too often in hot weather, let the soil dry out between waterings.

Phytophthora (cinnamomi), a disease also caused by a fungus, affects many plants in dry areas. The parasite destroys the roots during excessively rainy winters. The plant may suddenly wither in summer due to a lack of water as a result of the destruction of part or all of its roots. Partial or complete death of the vegetation or branches can be observed in severe cases. Prevention is crucial, as the disease is almost impossible to eradicate: make sure the soil drainage is perfect, remove the water from the saucer placed under the pot, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Pruning:

Grevilleas tolerate annual pruning well, during their growth period or just after flowering. Shorten the branches by one-third of their length. A regularly pruned bush will be more branched and more floriferous.