|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
Anticipation |
Gloire de Nantes | Bokuhan | Barbara Clark | Plantation Pink |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Spring Frill |
Bonnie Marie |
Alba Simplex |
Yours Truly |
Growing Camellias
In the southeast, most Camellias prefer part-shade, but this does mean some sun, if possible. Total shade will result in lack of bud formation in some varieties.
When planting improve your soil with plenty of moss peat or other humus and a general fertilizer such as fish, blood and bone. Most pot grown Camellias are grown in peat and bark, so before planting thoroughly tease out the roots and surround the root ball with peat and gradually grade this out until you reach your own garden soil. This helps the transition of the roots from peat to garden soil. Never plant deeper than the existing level, just mulch annually with humus, leaves and bracken.
On heavy clay, a raised bed can help, say 3 or 4 feet square(1-1.5 sq metres) and 1.5 to 2 feet deep(0.5-0.75 metres), half above soil level and the top surrounded by a small wall of brick, logs or sleepers etc.
On chalk construct a raised bed about 2 feet deep (0.75 metres), sealed from the natural soil by heavy plastic (punctured here and there for drainage) before filling with ericaceous compost.
Autumn flowering camellias will tolerate a more alkaline soil and require more sun to help them flower.
Camellias in containers
For plants in containers use a mix of 2/3 moss peat and 1/3 bark. Alternatively use one of the many branded ericaceous composts on the market. Add a general fertiliser such as fish, blood and bone meal. Repot when necessary into larger pots, remembering to maintain the planting level. Large plants can flower profusely for many years in a 25 litre pot if properly fed and watered.
Feeding and Watering
Camellias require some feeding. A basic of fish, blood and bone meal in spring and a nitrogen feed in April and then repeat in June. Regular watering with phostrogen for acid loving plants is also effective. Always use fertilizers in accordance with the manufacturers instructions and do not overfeed.
Camellias in containers must not be allowed to dry out in the summer months. However those in the open ground should only be watered in times of drought.
Indoors
Camellias do not thrive in central heating. However in a cool porch or conservatory they can be a real winter pleasure. After flowering they can stay where they are or be planted in the garden or containers outdoors.
Picked Camellia flowers will float in water for days.
Outdoors
There are Camellias suitable for almost every place and aspect. They make wonderful hedges which can be formally clipped or informally pruned. They are highly successful against walls facing any direction. Some varieties which make long growths can be trained against walls, fences and between windows. Some varieties which grow tall, but not wide are useful where space is short.
Hygiene
Be sure to clear away and dispose of fallen petals and leaves. They should not be composted.
Search by clicking on the species or by using the search button.
|
Camellia
japonica |
|
Camellia
sasanqua |
 Camellia
x williamsii and other
hybrids |
 Camellia
reticulata
and other species
|
Send mail to: rotherview@btinternet.com
Rotherview Nursery, Ivyhouse Lane, Three Oaks, Hastings TN35 4NP
Tel: 01424-756228
