The Care & Feeding of a Camellia Japonica

Planting Site

• Transplant "Camellia japonica" to the garden anytime from the fall to early spring so that roots have time to establish before summer. Choose an area that is in partial shade, especially if planting in regions with warm winters. This is especially critical during the establishment period. Once the plant is established, it can tolerate more sunlight. Also make sure that the planting site receives ample air circulation, but is protected from harsh winds. Space plants at least five feet apart.

Water and Soil

• "Camellia japonica" thrives in fertile, moist, well-drained soil that is high in organic matter. The ideal pH range for camellias is 5.0 to 5.5. If the soil needs adjusting to increase the acidity, add sulfur, organic matter or peat. If soil is too acidic, add dolomitic lime to the soil. Watering during the establishment period is especially important to encourage a sturdy root system. Apply enough water to keep the soil moist at a depth of 14 to 18 inches. Add a thick layer of mulch around the plant to conserve moisture.

Feeding Camellia Japonica

• Fertilize "Camellia japonica" four times a year: before spring growth, after the first flush of flowers, midsummer and early winter. Avoid fertilizing in the late summer and early fall because it may cause delicate growth that may get damaged at the start of the cold weather. Use a 15-5-15 formula or equivalent on the flowering shrub. Yellowish leaf tips or leaf drop is a sign of too much fertilizer.

Camellia Diseases

• Two of the most serious camellia diseases are camellia blight and camellia dieback and canker. Camellias blight affects only the flower by forming brown spots that eventually grow larger until they encompass the flower and cause it to fall off. Camellia dieback and canker causes leaves to turn yellow and wilt and the tips of branches to die. Sunken patches form on the trunk and the shrub eventually dies. Proper growing practices, pruning off dead and diseased areas and cleaning up garden debris help prevent the disease occurrences. Avoid or halt the spread of infection by using copper fungicides or Bordeaux mix.

Camellia Insects

• Scale are the biggest pest of "Camellia japonica." They feed on the undersides of leaves by sucking the plant juices. Scale cause yellowing leaves, poor flowering, leaf drop, and occasionally, death. Other sucking pests like aphids and spider mites are also known to feed on camellias. Use an insecticidal soap spray to get rid of these camellia pests.