How to grow running postman
Overview
Running postman (Kennedia prostrata) is a low-growing, trailing herbaceous perennial grown for its dense green foliage and vibrant red pea flowers. It is an excellent native groundcover for sunny, well-drained beds and rockeries, providing quick cover and seasonal colour with minimal care.
Soil Preparation
Running postman prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0) with excellent drainage. Amend heavy soils with sand or gravel to improve aeration. A light application of organic matter at planting helps establish roots, but avoid rich compost that may cause lush, weak growth.
Growing Guide
Plant running postman in full sun with free-draining soil; it thrives in sandy or gravelly loam. Space plants 50–60 cm apart to allow for spreading. Sow seed 1 cm deep after scarifying or soaking in hot water to improve germination. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged sites, as the plant is prone to root rot. In subtropical areas, plant in autumn to avoid summer heat stress on young plants.
Sowing
Sow seed 1 cm deep in spring (temperate) or autumn (mediterranean) after scarifying or soaking in hot water for 5 minutes. Germination takes 10–21 days at 20–25°C. Direct sow in final position or start in small pots; transplant when 10 cm tall.
Care
Feed lightly with a native-specific slow-release fertiliser in early spring; avoid high-phosphorus products. No regular pruning is needed—trim back leggy growth after flowering to maintain a compact shape. Mulch with coarse bark or gravel to suppress weeds and retain moisture in hot weather.
Companion Planting
Pair running postman with native grasses such as Poa labillardieri or Themeda triandra for a natural meadow effect. It also combines well with other low-growing natives like Scaevola albida and Brachyscome multifida. Avoid planting with vigorous, tall groundcovers that may smother it.
Common Pests & Risks
Caterpillars (especially native budworm) may chew leaves; hand-pick or use Bt spray if severe. Snails and slugs can damage new growth in wet weather; control with iron-based baits or beer traps. Fungal root rot occurs in poorly drained soils—improve drainage and avoid overwatering.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: often caused by waterlogged soil or poor drainage—check root zone and reduce watering. Brown leaf edges: may indicate salt burn from fertiliser or coastal exposure—flush soil and reduce feed. Leggy growth: insufficient light—move to full sun or prune back to encourage density. Poor flowering: lack of phosphorus or potassium—apply a native-specific low-phosphorus fertiliser in spring. Fungal spots on leaves: common in humid weather—improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering.