Canny Camellias

'CANNY CAMELLIAS'

Most species of Camellia come from China or Japan where they grow in the forested areas on the lower slopes of the mountains, such as the Himalayas, with high rainfall.  So the home they thrive in is shaded by tall trees,  which drop their leaves, forming a layer of acid leaf mould, which in turn is wet but well drained due to the slopes.

Camellia x williamsii 'Debbie'

 

Camellias are magnificent flowering evergreens, of which the majority in cultivation are as hardy as Laurel.  All having handsome glossy foliage as well as an assortment of beautiful flowers ranging from white to pink, red and cream in a variety of flower forms.

Camellia 'Margaret Davis'

To grow Camellias well, we need to imitate their native habitat and provide them with moist, lime-free soil, enriched with humus and some protection from sun and drying winds.

Camellia 'Rose A Fleur Ambriquee'

GROWING OUTDOORS

Best results are obtained when planted in a Westerly or Northerly aspect, against a wall, or sheltered by trees.  This gives some protection from frost and early morning sun, which would spoil the flowers.

They will not tolerate windy or waterlogged conditions.  The Camellia will grow in full sun if the roots are protected by shading.  When planting add plenty of lime-free compost,  e.g. Westland Rhododendron Azalea and Camellia compost.  This will help to retain the moisture and may also

be used as a mulch in the Spring.

Camellia 'Comte de Gomer'

HOW TO PLANT

Dig a hole approximately twice the size of the pot and water the Camellia before removing the pot.  The crown should be no lower than the soil level.  Back-fill with moist, lime free compost, making sure it is firmed down well.  It is vital to water during dry spells, especially through the first year until the roots have broken the original pot compost. Failure to do this may result in leaf and bud loss; also new growth and buds may fail to form.

Camellia japonica 'Contessa Lavinia Maggi'

Camellia japonica 'Contessa Lavinia Maggi'

FEEDING

Feed in March/Aprilwith a fertiliser such as, Vitax Azalea and Rhododendron pelleted ericaceous fertiliser.  Sprinkle a little around the roots and just beyond. Later in June, to help growth and bud formation, 35g of Sulphate of Potash and 35g of Magnesium Sulphate (Epsom Salts) may be added.

When growing Camellias in tubs or half-barrels, use John Innes ericaceous compost which is free of lime.  Place some broken crocks at the bottom of the tub and plant as normal.

Tubs however should never be allowed to dry out in Summer and should be kept moist but not sodden. Tubs should be protected during severe or prolonged periods of frost, so that the roots are not killed and the plants do not suffer drought through the soil freezing solid.  Alternatively they can be moved into a cold greenhouse,  conservatory or a similar well lit frost free structure, though this may cause them to flower slightly earlier than usual.

Camellia display at Cowell's Garden Centre.