Sasanqua camellias are the earliest flowering variety producing single or semi-double slightly fragrant flowers and are well-suited to hedges and espalier. They have small leaves and are sun tolerant and slightly drought tolerant. 

When to Plant

• Camellias are available throughout the year but the best time to plant is from early winter to early spring before the new growth appears

Where to Plant

• In their natural habitat camellias grow under the forest canopy where their roots are cool and moist, catching rays of light. Plant in shade to filtered sunlight. Some varieties will tolerate sun
• Plant in a moist well drained lime-free (acid) soil that has plenty of compost and organic material dug in before planting. Raise beds in clay soil to improve drainage

How to Plant

• Before planting water the plant well. Dig in plenty of compost or well rotted animal manure

Feeding

• 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

Mulching

• Apply a layer of mulch in late winter and again in January. Keep mulch away from the stem

Watering

• Camellias require plenty of water when new growth appears after flowering has finished. Deep watering is more effective than light sprinklings

Pruning

• Camellias have a natural compact growth habit and do not require regular pruning unless being grown as a hedge or topiary

Pests and Diseases

• Thrips are small black sucking insects that cause speckled silvery leaves. Spray with Mavrik/Enspray99
• Mites are minute sucking insects found on the underside of leaves that cause distortion, speckling and silvering of leaves. Spray with Mavrik/Enspray99  
• Aphids are small sucking insects on new growth. Control with Mavrik and/or Enspray99
• Scale insects suck the plants sap and appear as small brown lumps on the stems and foliage. Spray with Enspray99