How to Grow Camellias: A Comprehensive Guide

How to Grow Camellias?

To grow camellias, water newly planted camellias regularly for the first 18 months and during summer when flowers are produced.

Check the soil moisture and water well if it feels dry.

Use rainwater instead of tap water, especially in hard water areas.

Feed camellias with an ericaceous fertilizer in early spring, but avoid late-summer and excessive feeding.

Deadhead the flowers as they fade.

Provide winter protection for camellias in containers or in colder regions.

Plant camellias in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade.

Use an acidic soil with a pH of 6 to 6.5, and grow in pots with ericaceous compost if the soil is alkaline.

Prune as needed to maintain desired height.

Protect from frost and snow damage by covering or moving potted camellias.

Propagate through cuttings, layering, or grafting.

Take steps to prevent common pests and diseases, such as yellow leaves from alkaline soil or flower blight.

When purchasing camellias, choose healthy plants in flower.

Key Points:

  • Water newly planted camellias regularly for the first 18 months and during summer when flowers are produced.
  • Check soil moisture and water if dry, using rainwater instead of tap water in hard water areas.
  • Feed camellias with ericaceous fertilizer in early spring, avoiding late-summer and excessive feeding.
  • Deadhead fading flowers.
  • Provide winter protection for camellias in containers or colder regions.
  • Plant camellias in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade, using acidic soil with a pH of 6 to 6.5 and ericaceous compost if soil is alkaline.


Did You Know?

1. Camellias have been cultivated in China for thousands of years, and there are over 900 different species of this beautiful flowering plant.
2. The oil extracted from camellia seeds is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine and cosmetics due to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Camellias were introduced to Europe in the 18th century when a Jesuit priest, botanist, and explorer named Joseph Kamel discovered them in the Philippines. The botanical name “Camellia” was later derived from his name.
4. The shape and color of camellia flowers can vary greatly, from single petals to fully double flowers, and from whites and pinks to vibrant reds. Some species even exhibit variegated or striped patterns on their petals.
5. In Japan, the camellia flower is revered and symbolizes both humility and perfection. It is also closely associated with friendship, and it is common to exchange camellias as a sign of respect and admiration.

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Watering And Soil Care For Camellias

Camellias are exquisite flowering plants that require consistent watering, especially during the first 18 months after planting and throughout the summer months when they are in bloom. To ensure proper hydration, it is recommended to regularly check the moisture level of the soil 10cm (4in) below the surface. If the soil feels dry, it is essential to water the plants thoroughly.

However, it is crucial to be mindful of the type of water used for watering camellias. Tap water, particularly in areas with hard water, should be avoided for prolonged watering. The high calcium content in tap water can negatively affect the soil’s acidity. Instead, it is preferable to use rainwater, which is naturally acidic and better suited for camellias’ needs.

Fertilizing And Feeding Tips For Camellias

To promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms, camellias should be fed with an ericaceous fertilizer in early spring. Recommended options include Miracle-Gro Azalea, Camellia and Rhododendron Soluble Plant Food, or Chempak Ericaceous Food. These fertilizers are specifically formulated to meet the acid-loving camellias’ nutritional requirements.

It is important to note that excessive or late-summer feeding can result in bud drop, so it is advised to refrain from feeding camellias after the end of July. Moreover, regular deadheading of fading flowers is recommended to maintain the plant’s freshness and encourage continuous blooming.

Winter Protection For Camellias In Containers

In regions like Scotland or northern England, where harsh winter weather prevails, special measures must be taken to protect camellias in containers. To shield them from freezing temperatures, it is advisable to move the containers closer to the house or into a sheltered corner. Additionally, the plants can be wrapped with horticultural fleece to provide extra insulation.

For even greater protection, potted camellias can be temporarily relocated to a cold greenhouse or cool conservatory during severe freezing spells. These precautions will safeguard the camellias and ensure their healthy growth and survival during the winter months.

  • Move containers closer to the house or a sheltered corner
  • Wrap camellias with horticultural fleece for extra insulation
  • Temporarily relocate potted camellias to a cold greenhouse or cool conservatory during severe freezing spells

“To shield them from freezing temperatures, it is advisable to move the containers closer to the house or into a sheltered corner. Additionally, the plants can be wrapped with horticultural fleece to provide extra insulation.”

Planting And Repotting Camellias

When planting camellias, choose an appropriate location that offers partial shade and a sheltered spot. These woodland plants thrive in moist but well-drained soil, preferably with a slightly acidic pH ranging from 6 to 6.5. Conducting a soil test can help determine the soil’s acidity, or observing neighboring gardens with rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias can provide a good indication of acidic soil conditions.

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For those with alkaline soil, camellias can be successfully grown in pots using ericaceous compost. When planting in containers, it is crucial to select pots with ample drainage and a width of at least 30cm. The pot should be filled two-thirds full with compost, creating a hollow for the rootball. Position the plant centrally, ensuring that the top of the rootball sits approximately 5cm below the rim. Fill in the remaining space with compost, gently firming it around the roots, and water thoroughly.

Camellias are slow-growing plants, but it is recommended to repot them in fresh compost before they become pot-bound, preferably in spring. This will provide them with the necessary nutrients and room for continued healthy growth.

Pruning And Maintenance Of Camellias

Unlike many other flowering plants, camellias do not require pruning for flowering. However, if left unpruned, some varieties can reach heights of up to 5 meters (16 feet). To maintain a desired size and shape, selective pruning can be undertaken. It is advisable to prune camellias immediately after blooming to avoid the risk of removing potential flower buds.

Camellias were historically considered tender plants, but they are actually quite hardy. Nevertheless, frost and snow can damage their flower buds and flowers. To protect against such risks, it is recommended to cover the plants with horticultural fleece or, alternatively, move potted camellias into a greenhouse during unfavorable weather conditions.

Common Pests And Diseases Of Camellias

Like all plants, camellias are susceptible to certain pests and diseases. One common issue is yellow, chlorotic leaves, which can indicate alkaline soil and a lack of iron absorption. To remedy this, camellias in pots should be repotted using fresh ericaceous compost and provided with ericaceous plant food. For camellias planted in the ground, incorporating leaf mould, composted bracken, or composted pine needles can help improve the soil condition. Additionally, products containing chelated or sequestered iron can be added.

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Another problem that may arise is sooty mold on the leaves, which is often caused by leaf scale insects. This can be addressed by wiping off the insects with a soft soap solution. Furthermore, a lack of flowers in spring can be attributed to poor growing conditions the previous summer. Therefore, adequate watering and fertilization with ericaceous fertilizer are crucial for encouraging an abundance of blooms.

When purchasing camellias, it is advisable to choose plants in flower and carefully inspect them for any signs of damage or disease. Trustworthy sources for acquiring camellias include Primrose, Suttons, and Thompson & Morgan, among others.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do camellias grow best?

Camellias thrive in locations that provide dappled shade or full shade. The ideal setting would offer morning shade to protect the delicate flower buds from drying out too rapidly in direct sunlight. It is crucial to select a sheltered spot to avoid leaf and flower damage caused by strong winds and exposure to harsh elements.

Is Camellia easy to grow?

Yes, Camellias are generally considered to be easy to grow, especially in the South where they thrive in the right conditions. By planting them in rich, well-drained soil and providing protection from the intense afternoon sun, they can flourish. While annual pruning is recommended for optimal growth, dealing with fungal diseases is rarely a major concern for these plants. Overall, with proper care, Camellias can be a low-maintenance and rewarding addition to any garden.

Can you grow camellias from cuttings?

Yes, camellias can be successfully grown from cuttings. The best time to take stem cuttings is typically from autumn until mid-spring. Using secateurs, a stem of about 10 cm in length is selected, ensuring that it has 2-3 leaves at the top and is just below a node. These cuttings can then be propagated, allowing for the growth of new camellia plants.

Do camellias like full sun?

Camellias are more suited to partial shade rather than full sun. Although mature camellias can tolerate some direct sunlight, younger shrubs are best placed in areas with partial shade. It is advisable to plant them under taller trees or near a structure that can provide shade during the intense afternoon sun. Excessive exposure to sunlight can lead to leaf scorching and burning, affecting the overall health of the camellia plants.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4

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