Pests of protea cut-flowers

The insects and mites associated with protea plants, besides affecting flower production, result in a phytosanitary problem and inhibit export of the cut-flowers. Data are presented on the numbers of pests found on samples of protea cut-flowers from different localities and the types of pests involved. An assessment is made of the number of pests which are of phytosanitary importance and those which seriowly inhibit pro tea production. Priorities are suggested for research into the problems of pests in the protea cut-flower industry.