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The International Camellia Society [ TOPICS  ]
[ Cultivation Page ]
[ Camellia Care ]
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(outdoor) By William L. Ackerman
In general, cultural practices for growing camellias are similar to those
for rhododendrons, azaleas, and hollies. Careful planting is the single
most crucial factor in ensuring success. In northerly areas, where the plants
will be near the limit of their cold tolerance, spring planting is best.
The site should afford protection in winter from strong winds and morning sun.
When planting, add a generous amount of humus such as compost, leaf mold,
or coarse peat to the soil. Be careful not to plant too deeply; as with azaleas
and rhododendrons, the base of the stem should be
slightly higher than the surrounding soil.
A two- to four-inch layer of mulch is important to help the soil retain moisture
and to minimize alternate freezing and thawing in winter. During its first season,
water a new plant thorougly once a week unless there has been at
least one inch of rain. If the winter is a dry one, watering may also be
necessary during mild spells.
Camellias are not heavy feeders, so fertilizer should be used sparingly.
An acidic fertilizer may be applied in early spring and followed by a second
light application in June.
Plants may be pruned to remove weak or dead branches, to control size
or leggy growth, or to renew the vigor of older plants. Heavy pruning is
best done in spring, before the plants have begun to produce new growth.
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