The soil
Although some varieties can tolerate clay soil, it is best to pay
special attention to good drainage.
- Prepare the planting holes about 40cm deep.
- Mix acidic compost low in phosphates (like composted bark
or a specialised fynbos soil mix) with the excavated soil before
filling the hole in. - Do not simply fill the planting hole with lots of compost as you
can create a sump in which water will stand. This could cause
root rot. - Slightly raised beds aids good drainage, but remember to
always plant fynbos at the same level as they were growing in
their nursery containers.- Take care not to disturb the roots when removing the plants
from their nursery containers.
Weeds
The area around the plants should be free of weeds, but never dig
or hoe them out. Remove any weeds by hand, trying your best not
to disturb the soil. If you are scared of uprooting the plant while
weeding, rather cut the weeds off at ground level.Position
Full sun (at least six hours of sunlight) is needed
for good flower production. Even light shade
will cause leggy growth and no flowers.