Hardly any flower provides the classical touch to the New Zealand Garden like the camellia. Having lustrous, evergreen foliage and stunning flowers that emerge when colour is lacking, these shrubs are a treasure.
To get expert advice, several gardeners come to specialists such as The Plant Company. They have an enormous database of varieties extending from the heady camellia, Cinnamon Cindy, to the down-the-line Pearly. They are easy to follow and have highly informative advice on not only planting but also pests, and so are good references for both amateur and professional gardeners.
Choosing Your Perfect Camellia
The first step is selecting a variety that suits your garden’s needs.
- Sasanqua varieties such as Setsugekka have autumn and winter flowers, grow more rapidly, and excel in hedges or sunnier locations.
- The japonica types bloom later in winter into spring with larger, more often formal flowers, requiring a little more shade.
- Grow compact types such as Fairy Blush in small pots or areas.
The Right Spot for Success
Camellias are disarmingly versatile, yet with a couple of warnings.
- Position:A semi-sheltered position out of the afternoon sun and strong winds is best. They will withstand full sun but will need to be watered more.
- Soil:This is vital. Camellias need acidic, well-drained soil. Never plant in heavy clay or in a ponding area. Alkaline soil should be corrected.
Planting for the Future
The right planting spells years of growth.
- It should be planted from fall to spring
- Make a hole much larger and deeper than the root ball.
- Add lots of organic material to the soil, such as compost, but never mix fertiliser in the planting hole.
- Make the plant level with the soil that surrounds it, backfill it, deeply water it, and then cover with a layer of mulch to conserve moisture.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Camellias do not require much maintenance when they are established.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist due to dry spells of summer and at times when the plant is settling. Water moderately, and do not overwater, causing damp ground to initiate root rot.
- Feeding: Use a fertiliser suitable for acid-loving plants in spring after flowering. An early autumn second application can also be used.
- Pruning: Straight after flowering is the best time to prune. That gives time to grow new growth to mature, and make buds to grow the following year. Just cut down to a proper shape and size, in the case of renovating old plants.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even the best gardeners may run into trouble.
- Yellow Leaves: This indicates bad drainage, over-watering, or non-acidic soil.
- Brown Flowers: It can be caused by petal blight (a fungal disease) or frost damage. Enhance ventilation and do not use overhead watering to prevent blight.
- Pests: Look out for scale insects. Horticultural oils or suitable insecticides control these pests, and they are usually indicated by the presence of sooty mould on leaves.
Their beauty and strength make camellias a worthy addition to a garden. With these professional guidelines on planting, care, and selection, you are well on your way to a beautiful bounty of colour season after season.
