Camellia

An evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and large, showy blooms in various colours. Prefers acidic soil and partial shade.

1. Choosing the Right Location

• Sunlight: Prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler areas.
• Soil: Requires acidic, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.
• Spacing: Space plants 1 metre apart for proper growth and flowering.

2. Planting Time

• Best Time to Plant: Autumn (March–April) or spring (September–November).

3. Preparing the Planting Site

• Soil Preparation: Mix compost and peat moss into the planting site.
• Digging the Hole: Prepare a hole twice as wide as the root ball.

4. Planting

• Plant Placement: Ensure the root collar is slightly above soil level.
• Support: Not needed for camellias.

5. Watering and Fertilising

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilising: Use a specialised camellia fertiliser during the growing season.

6. Mulching and Maintenance

• Mulching: Apply bark mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.

7. Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Watch for scale insects and aphids; treat with organic insecticides if needed.
• Diseases: Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

8. Winter Care

• Hardiness: Frost-tolerant in New Zealand conditions.

9. Common Uses

• Adds ornamental value with its glossy leaves and stunning flowers.