Proteas

Protea's live naturally in South Africa and in Australia, very dry places. I would not think they need watering much at all. They grow in most arid places. If you do want to water them, why not ordinary tap water? All this extra care lovy dovy is not a natural approach to these plants. They are tough as boots. Good luck and don't fuss over them too much.

Don't give them tap water if you live in a hard water area. No water for a few days is better than hard water. Is there a pond in the area you can go and dip a bucket in?

Thanks Andrew
Why did I not think of that!
We have had a couple of showers today and the plants have benefited.
All my proteas are in pots because here on Gower it can be wild and wet and frosty and I can move them in to the greenhouse as necessary-However it means they can dry out very quickly in my south facing garden so I water when dry and they are all now growing well.
Now that you have got me thinking laterally I may pay a visit to the local stream or persuade the husband to take me further afield with some large containers as there is a large freshwater pool not that far away.
However the dogs have just come come in soaking so heres hoping it clears by morning as once started it can forget to stop!
Sorry to all those on holiday-my rain dance obviously works!
Arlene