GARDEN TALES: Camellia - Cultivation & care

Friday, April 21, 2006

Camellia - Cultivation & care

Camellias are fair sized evergreen shrubs 2 x 2m (6 x 6ft).

Peak flowering season is March to May
Growing Conditions: Well drained fertile, lime-free soil with plenty of organic matter, in a sheltered site in light shade. A sunny spot will do if the ground stays moist in summer; avoid east-facing situations. Can be grown in tubs of ericaceous (lime-free) compost where the garden soil is not suitable

Like most medium-sized evergreen shrubs they require little pruning once a well balanced framework has been established. In mid-spring just before growth is about to commence remove any weak or crossing shoots as well as any that affect the overall shape & balance of the shrub. Feed & mulch. Any subsequent pruning is limited to cutting out straggly growth, restricting size & shaping the plant to suit its position in the garden. Note: shrubs pruned in late summer should not be fed or mulched until the following spring to minimize damage from frosts.

White camellia flowers can turn brown at the first sign of wet or windy weather. Hybrids of camellia need regular dead-heading (removing faded flowers with secateurs).