Camellia Care
Planting
Most camellias, especially Camellia japonica, grow well in zones 7-10 and grow best in shady spaces, sheltered from hot afternoon sun. Camellia sasanqua is more tolerant of sun. All camellias prefer well-drained soil, and require only medium watering during summer growth months and light watering the rest of the year.
Health
Camellias are susceptible to a petal blight caused by a fungus that turns their flowers brown, especially in the center. Control is best accomplished by these preventative measures:1) remove infected flowers from the plants, if possible, and off the ground soon after they have fallen; 2) improve air circulation by pruning; 3) avoid overhead irrigation, and 4) add a thick layer of clean mulch after flowering to help prevent spores production.
