Sick Protea

Question

Hello Gardening Know How. The Claire/Protea we purchased 14 months ago was doing great for months at our home in Pacifica, CA where it is highly compatible. However, the past month the leaves started turning yellow and dropping…. We do have 7 new buds growing well – but the yellow and fast dropping leaves are a concern. Can you look at the pics and please let us know your assessment and recommendations? Many Thanks.

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Answer 1

They require very well drained soil and little water. Also, they should not be fertilized. Yellow leaves are often a sign of over or under watering. Does the plant usually sit in the larger container? If so, the saucer needs to be removed to prevent any pooling of drainage water. It also seems large and may be hindering the soil drying out. Here is information that will help discern the problem.

https://arboretum.ucsc.edu/protea-care.pdf

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/protea/protea-plant-care-tips.htm