Camellia combines beautiful foliage and spectacular flowers, but requires careful attention to soil acidity, humidity and temperature.
Location
In a room—east or northeast windows; in a garden—partial shade or diffused light. Avoid direct midday sun (especially in summer).
Temperature
+18...+25 °C in summer, (+8...+12 °C) in winter for bud formation.
Humidity
High (60–80%). Regular spraying or a humidifier is necessary.
Soil
Acidic (pH 4.5–6). A mixture of the following is well suited:
- Akadama (40%);
- acidic peat or leaf humus (30%);
- perlite or sand (30%).
Drainage is essential – camellias cannot tolerate waterlogging.
Repotting
Every 2–3 years in spring (after flowering).
Watering
The soil should be kept slightly moist at all times, but not waterlogged.
Use soft water (rainwater or filtered water).
Water generously in summer and moderately in winter; do not allow the soil to dry out.
Shaping
Main shaping should be done after flowering.
In summer, shorten the shoots, leaving 2–3 pairs of leaves.
Remove weak or overly long shoots.
Wire: use with caution, as camellia bark is delicate and easily damaged. It is best to use soft aluminum wire and make sure it does not cut into the bark.
Flowering
Camellias usually bloom at 3–5 years of age.
Buds are formed in autumn, so during this period it is especially important to:
- keep the plant cool;
- water regularly;
- do not move the pot (buds may fall off).
Fertilization
Spring–summer: fertilizer for azaleas or acidophilic plants every 2–3 weeks.
In autumn – less nitrogen, more phosphorus and potassium (for flowering).
In winter – do not feed.
Pests
Spider mites, aphids, scale insects (spraying with insecticides and maintaining humidity helps).
Possible difficulties
Bud drop: sudden temperature changes or overdrying.
Yellow leaves: alkaline water or overly alkaline substrate.
Dry leaf tips: low air humidity.
