The camellia is considered by hobby gardeners to be a diva among potted plants because it often hardly blooms or loses leaves and flowers prematurely. With the right care and not too much heat, keeping Camellia japonica is not that complicated.

The Camellia japonica needs a lot of light, but not direct sunlight

How do you water Camellia japonica correctly?

The soil in the bucket should never dry out completely. During flowering, the plant needs more water than during dormancy.

Use soft water, such as rainwater. If you can only water with tap water, let the water sit for a few days and keep it at room temperature.

Do camellias need to be fertilized?

In the bucket, the Camellia japonica only needs fertilizer during the main growth period from March to July. Use a commercial bog bed fertilizer that is also suitable for azaleas.

Fertilize every two weeks as directed.

When do camellias need to be repotted?

Flowering camellias should not be repotted too often. A new pot every three years is sufficient. The best time is in spring after flowering.

Can camellias be pruned?

Regularly trim healthy Camellia japonica into shape, but so carefully that you can hardly see the cut.

If necessary, you can radically cut back the camellia. However, you should not cut the remaining shoots too short.

What diseases and pests do you need to watch out for?

  • camellia plague
  • scale insects
  • vine weevil
  • thrips

If the plant sheds all leaves and flowers or rots, it is usually not a disease that is responsible, but incorrect care and an unfavorable location. Check that the plant

  • gets enough light
  • there is no waterlogging
  • not too warm and
  • does not stand too drafty

If you remedy the situation, the Camellia japonica usually recovers quickly.

What is the maintenance like in winter?

Camellia japonica is not hardy. Although it tolerates temperatures down to -5 degrees, it is best overwintered in a cool place in the house. Since camellias bloom in winter, hallways or entryways are good locations.

tips and tricks

Camellias do not do well at all in extreme temperature changes. If a change of location is unavoidable, slowly acclimate the plant to warmer or cooler temperatures. Otherwise, she sheds leaves and flowers.

Category:

Vegetable garden