Sasanqua camellias are the earliest flowering variety producing single or semi double slightly fragrant flowers. They are sun and slightly drought tolerant and suited to hedges and espalia (pruning to form topiaries).
How to Care
Planting
Camellias are available throughout the year but the best time to plant is from early winter to early spring before the new growth appears.
Plant in shade to filtered sunlight in a moist, well drained lime free (acid) soil that has plenty of compost and organic material. Raise beds in clay soil to improve drainage.
Before planting, water the plant well. Dig in plenty of compost or well-rotted animal manure. Feeding and Watering Take care when fertilising camellias as they have shallow surface roots. Use Camellia, Rhododendron and Azalea food once flowering has finished and new growth starts. This helps next year’s flowers develop. Water in well. Camellias require plenty of water when new growth appears after flowering has finished. Deep watering is more effective than light sprinklings.
Mulching
Apply a layer of mulch in late winter and again in January. Keep mulch away from the stem.
Feeding
Use Tui Acid Fertiliser for all feeding of Camellias.
Pruning
Pruning Camellias is not required unless being grown as a hedge or topiary, as they have a natural compact growth habit.
Pests and Diseases
Thrips
Thrips cause speckled silvery leaves. Spray with Mavrik or Confidor.
Mites
Mites are found on the underside of leaves that cause distortion, speckling and silvering of leaves. Spray with Mavrik or Mite Killer.
Aphids
Aphids are small sucking insects on new growth. Control with Mavrik or Confidor.
Scale Insects
Scale Insects suck the plants sap and appear as small brown lumps on the stems and foliage. Spray with Growsafe Enspray 99.