Plant Erica sessiliflora in full sun, where there is free circulation of air. Soil type should be free-draining, sandy and acidic with low levels of phosphate. No manure should be used, rather feed with well-rotted compost or slow-release or low-dose organic fertilizers. To increase acidity of the soil, decomposed pine needles or pine bark can be mixed into the soil. Remove weeds and grass before planting. Mulch with well-rotted compost or pine bark after planting--this helps suppress weeds and prevents soil moisture from evaporating. If weeds are removed from around the plant, hold the soil down firmly around the weed first and then remove the weed; this helps prevent disturbance to the delicate Erica roots. This plant is not a candidate for the arid water-wise garden as it needs water all year round. The best time for planting is in late summer to autumn (March to May), when the weather is cooler. Prune plants regularly as this stimulates branching and removes diseased material.

Grow Erica sessiliflora in the fynbos garden where it looks very attractive inter-planted with other fynbos species or planted en masse. It is well suited to a region with a Mediterranean climate, and does well in rockeries. E. sessiliflora is also suitable for pot cultivation, which is recommended for gardens in colder climates, as the pot can be moved to a protected position during the cold months. Good drainage is essential.

Erica sessiliflora can be propagated from either cuttings or seed. A larger plant is achieved sooner from cuttings than from seed.

Take cuttings in autumn or spring. Semi-hard wood or heel cuttings are best. A higher percentage of rooting is achieved if a rooting hormone is applied. The recommended medium is equal parts of sifted bark and polystyrene for good aeration. Place the cuttings in a mist unit with bottom heat.

Sow seed in autumn (April-May) in 100 mm deep seed trays. Erica sessiliflora seeds take longer to mature than in most other species, and should be harvested from the fruiting heads that are one or two years old. A higher percentage germination is achieved if the seeds are first treated with Instant Smoke Plus Seed Primer or a similar smoke treatment. The soil medium used should be acidic and well drained (e.g. equal parts of river sand and sifted bark mixed together). Sow seeds thinly and evenly to prevent damping off. This can be done by mixing seed with fine, dry sand before sowing and spreading the sand and seed evenly over the seed tray. Cover with a thin layer of sand after sowing. Water gently and keep the tray moist but not wet and out of direct sunlight and rain. Germination occurs within 1-2 months. When the seedlings are about 10 mm tall, move the tray to a lightly shaded position. Pot up when they are 15-20 mm tall and keep lightly shaded and well watered until hardened off (1-3 months). The young, established plants are then moved into direct sunlight and grown on until large enough to be planted into the garden.