MOUNTAIN MIST
Accommodation Services in Piketberg

Proteas are a family of shrubs with unusual and beautiful flowers. Proteas grow in variable soils that are generally poor with a predominance of Table Mountain sandstone, particularly in the mountainous regions. Proteas also grow in Bokkeveld shale which has a high content of clay. Some even grow in the other extreme of virtually pure sand, particularly along our coastal regions. The pH of the soils is on the acid side although there are some areas with alkaline soils with pH as high as 8,0. The mountain ranges are cooler, experiencing the effects of prevailing winds, mists and cloud. Snow falls regularly in the Cape mountains each winter. A very important factor in the ecology of Proteaceae is a well-drained soil and efficient drainage system. This provides not only a well-aerated soil, but also a cool root system which is important. The Proteaceae are essentially social plants, although there are a number of exceptions. Many of the species growing in their natural habitat occur in close proximity to one another, forming close-knit communities. The individual plants protect one another from prevailing winds. They create a dense cover which prevents compaction, keeps the soil cool and reduces the rate of evaporation. Providing the world's gardeners with South African fynbos seeds, and information on how to grow proteas from seed. Most famous for its proteas (of which one, the king protea, is South Africa's national flower), this small area is, in fact, home to over 8000 species of plants. This is the smallest and, for its size, richest of the world's six floral kingdoms. Supporting 8500 species of plants, it is of international ecological and conservation importance. Many popular garden plants, such as pelargoniums (geraniums) and freesias, have their origin in fynbos. To learn some tricks of the trade when growing fynbos, read about how to give fynbos the treatment it expects to ensure you don't tend it to death. Visit the Fijnbosch Farme to see all the animals and plants we have photographed there. Fynbos provides very poor grazing and does not support the game found elsewhere in South Africa. Do not expect to find large antelope and other big mammals here, but enjoy the birds and insects and other small animals and marvel at the richness and beauty of the flowers. It is these creatures that prevented us from becoming a large protea exporter, since we aren't cruel enough to poison them just to end up with flowers so perfect you think they might be plastic; -).