Growing camellias is a rewarding way to add colour to the garden through the cooler months. When it comes to winter flowering shrubs, Camellia japonica is hard to go past for its beauty. Its cousin, Camellia sasanqua, flowers in autumn and into early winter. By planting a selection of both, you can enjoy camellias in flower for at least two seasons of the year.
Growing camellias
- For best results when growing camellias, they are happiest in slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5). Before planting, it is important to test and adjust your soil if needed. Add powdered sulphur if your soil is too alkaline at the recommended rate.
- Prone to root rot, choosing the right growing media is essential. If planting your camellias in a pot, opt for acidic, free-draining, organic-rich potting mix that holds moisture without becoming waterlogged, such as Rocky Point’s Coco Pro Potting Mix. If planting in the ground, Organic Health Garden Soil will provide your camellias with a suitable growing environment. Water in with a liquid seaweed solution to reduce transplant shock. Then mulch thickly with Rocky Point Tea Tree Mulch.
- The first two years of the camellia’s life, while still establishing, will set the tone for its overall success. During dry periods and summer heat, frequent watering is needed, so the roots never dry out. In winter, maintain consistent moisture, mulch well to protect the roots, and avoid unnecessary disturbance while the plant is resting. Once fully established, fertilise with Rocky Point Rose, Camellia & Azalea fertiliser.
Camellia varieties
Camellia sasanquas flower in autumn and winter. These camellias have smaller leaves and make great flowering hedging plants. Camillia sasanquas ill grow in shady to full sun positions in the garden and are moderate growers.
Camellia japonicas have larger leaves and showy blooms that come in a variety of colours and flower forms that appear in winter and early spring. They prefer a semi-shaded to shady position in the garden. Whether you choose a sasanqua or japonica variety, growing camellias can provide beautiful flowers from autumn through to spring.
