Reply To: Why are my waratah buds falling off before blooming?

[Lorri Hopkins]

Hi there, Lorri here! Bud drop on waratahs often comes down to a few things: inconsistent watering (they like steady moisture in well-draining soil), sudden weather changes like heat or wind, or a lack of nutrients—try a native-friendly, low-phosphorus fertiliser.

Check the buds for pests like thrips or signs of fungal issues like grey mould. If the plant is young or stressed, it might be adjusting. Waratahs can be a little fussy, but with some care, they’ll reward you with stunning blooms. Let us know how you go!