The season for camellias

Press, 22 September 1983, Page 14

The season for camellias

Few flowers give greater pleasure over a long period than camellias. The early varieties start flowering in late autumn and the later ones will continue until November.

The Sasanqua camellias are the first to flower. What they lack in size is made up for with their profusion. Single or double, they simply cover the bush. They are also very adaptable and are popular for hedges; the small leaves becoming very dense when pruned annually after flowering. In early winter, the larger flowered and most popular Japonica camellias, and their hybrids, start to flower particularly in the mild districts.

By mid-spring you can take your choice of hudnreds of different varieties if you visit a camellia show.

The introduction of new hybrid camellias, the result of crossing various species and varieties, especially the huge and exquisite Reticu-

lata varieties, has opened up a new world for the home gardener. these hybrids have inherited what is called “hybrid vigour,” which makes them almost as easy to grow as any other.

The most important requirement for growing healthy camellias is a good free draining soil.

Areas with clay or heavy soils should have large amounts of compost or peat worked in prior to planting.

It is also extremely important to raise the planting area some 200 mm above the surrounding soil. This ensures that the roots do not suffer from wet feet.

Camellias are regarded as acid-soil plants. More correctly, they should be regarded as lime haters, as, in fact, they are very happy in average garden conditions as far as acidity is concerned.

The addition of organic

material, such as compost or peat at planting time, and again as a mulch, will ensure acid conditions.

Camellias still require significant quantities of N.P.K. — the main nutrients required for growth. An acid fertiliser or a general garden fertiliser will supply these. Whilst camellias will grow in sun or partial shade, in the warmer northern areas, they are certainly happier when given a cooler semi-shady aspect. They are tolerant of most winds and cold, providing they do not dry out.