Autumn is the best time to sow the seed. Use a light, well-draining medium. For this plant, a mixture of equal parts sand and compost, or just plain coarse river sand, will do. Cover the seed with a thin layer of sand or bark, and then water. Keep the seed tray in a covered area that provides enough ventilation and good light. The medium must never be overwatered or be allowed to dry out. Germination takes between 4 and 9 weeks.

The seedlings can be pricked out when the first four true leaves appear. Move the potted plants to a shady area for 3-4 weeks to harden them off before placing them in the sun. This period is also the ideal time to pinch out the growing tips of the seedlings, to promote a more bushy growth habit. The young seedlings can now also be fed with some balanced nutrient products. These plants will be ready for transplanting into the garden after 8 to 9 months.

This buchu can also be propagated from cuttings. Take heel, tip or semi-hardwood cuttings from fresh material of the current year's growth. Take cuttings of between 25 and 55 mm length, remove about a third of the foliage and cut them below the node. The cuttings are then dipped in a rooting hormone and placed in trays with a medium consisting of equal parts of bark and polystyrene.

If available, place the cuttings in a mist unit with heated benches. If not available, place cuttings in a protective environment such as under waterproof sheeting. Ensure the cuttings are kept damp at all times. This could be done by using a fine sprayer or sealing the cuttings in a plastic bag. It normally takes 9-11 weeks for roots to develop. The rooted cuttings must ideally be hardened off for 2-3 weeks before potting up.

Pot the rooted cuttings into a well-draining mix and place them in a shady area to harden off. After 2-4 weeks they can be moved into full sun.

Agathosma cerefolium prefers full sun and a well-drained soil. The ideal time for planting is between autumn and winter during the rainy season. This affords plants the opportunity to establish themselves properly in the garden before they have to cope with the harsh weather conditions of summer.

Before planting commences, dig over the soil and, if required, add compost and a slow-release fertiliser.

Some companion plants which this buchu could be planted with include: Coleonema album, Acmadenia mundiana, Agathosma collina, Delosperma litorale, Jordaaniella dubia, Leucospermum patersonii, Protea susannae, Pelargonium betulinum, Lobelia valida and Chrysocoma coma-aurea.

Space plants 20-30 cm apart when planting. This should provide enough space to encourage growth. Buchus thrive when densely planted as this helps to retain soil moisture. Water the plants well after planting.

Regular mulching will also assist in keeping the soil and roots cool during summer.