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Now that you’ve chosen the variety of Kangaroo Paw and considered the best location for it to thrive, it’s time to start planting. We’re sharing steps that will help your Kangaroo Paw grow successfully, whether you’re starting from seed or propagating an existing plant.
Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. Always wear gloves and a mask when handling potting mix, mulch and compost, and store products out of the reach of children and pets.
While most varieties of this plant don't produce seeds, you may be able to so Kangaroo Paw seeds in-store. Start by soaking the seeds in hot water for two hours. This will soften the seed coating and increase the chances of germination.
Discard the water and plant the seeds in a warm, damp seed starting mix and keep the soil moist. The optimal time to plant Kangaroo Paw seedlings is in spring when the weather is growing warmer. Be patient and keep the soil moist for up to six weeks for germination to occur.
Kangaroo Paws are easy to propagate. They have a rhizome root system, meaning their roots grow horizontally and produce nodes that can yield new plants. To propagate, use a trowel to carefully lift the plant from the roots. Trim the flowers and leaves back to approximately 30cm. Divide them using your hands, a knife or the blade of a spade. Next, replant each section in moist, well-watered soil. Keep the soil moist until you see new growth.
Tip: Dividing the root rhizome every few years will encourage healthy growth for your Kangaroo Paw plants.
Consider which area of your garden you'll be planting your Kangaroo Paw. Remember this plant has a grass-like, clumping habit in the ground. To plant, dig a hole twice the pot size and loosen the soil by turning it over with your hands, shovel or garden fork. Place the plant, covering the roots with soil and watering in well.
These resilient plants can be planted any time from March through early November. If planted in a pot, most Kangaroo Paws are tolerant of phosphorus in soil, so any premium potting mix with good drainage will do. Once potted, water regularly. Scatter pebbles on top of the soil; this will act as your mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature in the heat.
Tip: Note the black Kangaroo Paw variety is phosphorus-sensitive and requires an Australian native potting mix in order to thrive.
When planting in a garden bed, read the label and follow directions accordingly. The spacing will depend on the variety of Kangaroo Paw you're planning to grow. If spacing issues arise, you can use the dividing method outlined above if they get too big.
Check out these tips on how to maintain healthy Kangaroo Paw plants.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
