Camellias

When to Plant 

The best time to plant is in winter. If planting in spring or summer, keep well-watered.

 When to Plant

Camellias are available throughout the year but the best time to plant is from early winter to early spring before the new growth appears

Where to Plant

In their natural habitat camellias grow under the forest canopy where their roots are cool and moist, catching rays of light. Plant in shade to filtered sunlight. Some varieties will tolerate sun.

Plant in a moist well drained lime free (acid) soil that has plenty of compost and organic material dug in before planting. Raise beds in clay soil to improve drainage.

How to Plant

Before planting water the plant well. Dig in plenty of compost or well-rotted animal manure.

Pests and Diseases 

• Thrips are small black sucking insects that cause speckled silvery leaves. Spray with Mavrik or Naturally Neem

  Mites are tiny sucking insects found on the underside of leaves that cause distortion, speckling and silvering of leaves. Spray with Mavrik or Naturally Neem combined with Enspray 99 oil.

  Aphids are small sucking insects on new growth. Control with Mavrik and Enspray 99

  Scale Insects suck the plants sap and appear as small brown lumps on the stems and foliage. Spray with Enspray 99 Oil.

Types of Camellias

Sasanqua camellias

Sasanqua camellias are the earliest flowering variety producing single or semi double slightly fragrant flowers and small leaves.

This variety is sun tolerant and slightly drought tolerant.

Sasanqua camellias are suited to hedges and espalier.

Japonica Camellias

Identified by their shiny, dark green dense leaves, Japonica camellias generally flower for several months, anytime from April right through to October. Their flowers range from tiny to large in size.

Japonica are very adaptable, thriving in a mild climate and growing in a wide range of temperatures without issue.

After Care

Feeding

Take care when fertilising camellias as they have shallow surface roots. Use Tui acid fertiliser once flowering has finished and new growth starts. This helps next year’s flowers develop. Water in well.

Mulching

Apply a layer of mulch in late winter and again in January. Keep mulch away from the stem.

Watering

Camellias require plenty of water when new growth appears after flowering has finished. Deep watering is more effective than light sprinklings.

Pruning

Camellias have a natural compact growth habit and do not require regular pruning unless being grown as a hedge or topiary.