Camellias give pleasure over a long period

Press, 16 September 1986, Page 13

Camellias give pleasure over a long period

Few flowers give greater pleasure over a longer period than those of the camellia family. Early varieties start in late autumn, and later ones will go on until November.

The Sasanqua Camellias are the first to flower. What they lack in size is made up by 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 Japonica Camellias, which are the best known, and their hybrids, start to flower particularly in the mild districts. By mid-spring, you can choose from hundreds of varieties if you visit a camellia show. The introduction of new hydrid camellias which are the result of crossing various species and varieties, especially the huge and exquisite Reticulata varieties, have 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 of the others. The most important requirement for growing camellias is a good, free draining soil. Areas with clay or heavy soils should have large amounts of compost or peat worked in before planting. It is also extremely important to raise the planting area some 200 mm above surrounding soil. This ensures roots do not suffer from wet feet.

Camellias are regarded as acid-soil plants. More correctly, they should be regarded as lime haters. They are, in fact, very happy in average garden conditions as far as acidity is concerned. The addition of organic material, such as compost or peat,

at planting and again as a mulch will ensure acid conditions.

Camellias still require significant quantities of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, 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 warmer northern areas they are certainly happier in a cooler, semi-shady aspect. They

are tolerant of most winds and cold, providing they do not dry out. In milder climates, camellias are often attacked by leaf-roller caterpillars, which stick leaves together, and in this protected environment, cause considerable damage by eating the leaves.

Thrips and mites can also be a problem. Spraying with Orthene, particularly from December to May, will ensure complete control of these pests.