Camellia cultivation methods and precautions

Camellia is deeply loved by people for its evergreen nature, elegant flowers and rich fragrance. However, although many flower lovers grow camellia, they are always unable to take good care of it and various problems arise. Let’s learn about the camellia cultivation methods and precautions below.

1. Fertilization

When planting or repotting, apply an appropriate amount of decomposed organic fertilizer or bone meal as base fertilizer at the bottom of the pot to increase soil fertility. In spring, apply nitrogen-based fertilizer every 10 days to promote new bud growth and branch lignification. During the flower bud differentiation period, apply phosphorus and potassium fertilizers instead, and apply a dilute potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution once every 10 days to promote flower bud formation. In autumn, apply phosphorus and potassium fertilizers once every half a month to help the plants survive the winter safely.

2. Watering

The principle of watering camellia is "water thoroughly when dry". Water when the soil surface is dry and white and the leaves are slightly drooping. In spring, keep the soil in the pot moist and water it once every 1 to 2 days; in summer, water it once in the morning and evening to keep the bottom of the pot moist, spray water frequently to cool down and increase humidity, and avoid watering at noon. In autumn, water once a week; in winter, water about 2 times a month.

3. Lighting

Camellia needs 6-8 hours of light per day to grow and should be placed in a well-lit location. Avoid prolonged exposure to strong direct sunlight, provide shade in summer, and allow sunlight all day in winter.

4. Soil

Camellia is suitable for loose, breathable, fertile and slightly acidic soil, and should avoid using heavy clay soil and saline-alkali soil. Recommended soil formula: 3 parts garden soil + 3 parts river sand + 3 parts coal slag + 1 part coconut bran to ensure good air permeability and water and fertilizer retention capabilities.

5. Notes

Watering should be done at noon in winter, and avoid watering when the temperatures are low in the morning and evening. At the same time, pay attention to the water temperature should be close to the potting soil to reduce damage to the plant.

When the temperature exceeds 30°C in summer, camellia enters a dormant period. At this time, watering and fertilization must be controlled to avoid affecting the health of the plant.

In short, even in its dormant period, camellia likes a humid environment. You can increase the air humidity by spraying or placing water trays, but avoid letting the spray fall directly on the flowers and leaves to avoid causing diseases.