How to Grow Kangaroo Paw Plant Outdoors

The Kangaroo Paw plant (Anigozanthos) is a unique and vibrant addition to any garden. With its unusual, paw-shaped flowers and striking colors, it is sure to capture attention and add a touch of exotic beauty. While native to Western Australia, this plant can be successfully grown outdoors in various climates. In this article, we will guide you on how to grow Kangaroo Paw plants outdoors and enjoy their beauty year-round.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step in growing Kangaroo Paw plants is selecting the right location in your garden. These plants thrive in full sun, so choose an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. They also prefer well-draining soil, so ensure the area has good drainage.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting Kangaroo Paw, it is essential to prepare the soil properly. Start by removing any weeds or grass from the area. Loosen the soil using a garden fork or tiller to a depth of around 12 inches. This will help improve drainage and allow the plant’s roots to penetrate deeply.

Kangaroo Paw plants prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. To achieve this, incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure into the soil. This will enrich the soil and provide essential nutrients for healthy growth.

Planting Kangaroo Paw

Once the soil is prepared, it’s time to plant your Kangaroo Paw plants. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the plant’s root ball. Gently place the plant in the hole, ensuring that it sits at the same level as it was in the container or nursery pot. Backfill the hole with soil and gently firm it around the plant.

Spacing between individual Kangaroo Paw plants is crucial for proper growth. Allow a distance of about 1 to 2 feet between each plant, as they can spread and fill the space over time.

Watering and Care

Proper watering is essential for the successful growth of Kangaroo Paw plants. These plants prefer moist soil but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Water deeply once or twice a week during the growing season, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.

During hot summer months, it may be necessary to increase the frequency of watering. However, be cautious not to let the soil become waterlogged. To maintain soil moisture and prevent weed growth, consider applying a layer of mulch around the plants.

Kangaroo Paw plants benefit from regular feeding during the growing season. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer according to package instructions. This will provide essential nutrients and promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.

Pruning and Maintenance

To keep your Kangaroo Paw plant looking its best, regular pruning is necessary. Remove any dead or damaged foliage as soon as you notice it. This will help prevent the spread of diseases and pests and improve the plant’s overall appearance.

After the flowering period, you can also trim back the flower stems to encourage new growth. Cut them back to ground level or just above a healthy leaf cluster. This will stimulate the production of more flowers and keep your plant looking tidy.

Protection from Frost

While Kangaroo Paw plants are generally hardy, some varieties may be susceptible to frost damage. If you live in an area with cold winters, take precautions to protect your plants from freezing temperatures.

Covering the plants with a frost blanket or horticultural fleece can provide adequate protection. Alternatively, you can bring potted Kangaroo Paw plants indoors during colder months or move them to a sheltered spot in your garden.

Propagating Kangaroo Paw

If you want to expand your collection of Kangaroo Paw plants or share them with friends, you can propagate them through division. This can be done in early spring by carefully digging up the plant and separating the clumps into smaller sections. Ensure that each section has a healthy root system attached.

Replant the divided sections in well-prepared soil, following the same planting instructions as mentioned earlier. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly and provide them with proper care to ensure successful establishment.

Conclusion

Growing Kangaroo Paw plants outdoors can be a rewarding experience. With their unique flowers and vibrant colors, these plants are sure to add a touch of exotic beauty to your garden. By selecting the right location, preparing the soil, and providing proper care, you can enjoy the beauty of Kangaroo Paw plants year-round. So why not give them a try and bring a touch of Australia to your outdoor space?