'Proteas taught me patience’
Naveen Munsami, a services manager from Westhills Estate in Pinetown, has discovered a passion for planting Proteas.
Since 2015, he has nurtured his garden, cultivating various types of proteas, including the King Protea, Susara, King White, King Pink, Madiba, Sylvia, Limelight, Little Prince, Pink Ice and Cream Mink.
"I wanted to start a beautiful garden when we moved to our new home in 2015. After researching, I decided to try planting proteas. It's an amazing feeling to have our national flower in my garden," said the 52-year-old.
Munsami's garden boasts 10 varieties of proteas, each with its unique characteristics and flowering seasons, the different flowering seasons ensure that I have flowers blooming all year round. He enjoys the beauty and diversity of proteas, but said there were some challenges.
"Proteas require well-drained soil, full sun, and it should not be fertilised. They also need regular pruning to maintain the shape. I have one plant that is over eight years and has not flowered yet but I think it may flower soon.
"Some lesser-known facts about proteas are that they are the oldest flowers on the planet. Their nectar was used as a cough syrup in the 1800s and there are over 1 500 species."
He generously shares his protea blooms with family, friends and neighbours, who admire his gardening skills.
His wife Nelleni and two sons, Liam and Dylan, assist with gardening and pruning.
In addition to proteas, Munsami grows succulents, aloes, and pin cushions. He also grows some Cape indigenous plants that complement his Proteas when he makes bouquets.
He advises aspiring protea growers to provide well-drained soil, full sun, and avoid fertilising or moving the plants once established.
“With dedication and persistence, anyone can cultivate beauty and life in their gardens. I initially failed with some variants, but today I have mature plants, so don't give up. I have learned patience and persistence through my experiences."