Queens of the Garden

November 17, 2011

My Enchanted Forest/Garden have a variety of hardy Camellia species to choose from

Camellias have often been referred to as the "Queens of the Garden".  Their glossy green foliage, lovely shapme and stunning array of colorful blooms during the winter and spring months has made them highly desirable for shadier spots in the garden.  The ideal spot for a Camellia would be in a well drained area with a high tree leaf canopy overhaed for some shade but not completely dense.. we often refer to this as a dappled or filtered light.  Winter sun and summer shade is also suitable.

Planting from November to April is a good idea to get them established before the onset of summer's heat.  When planting your Camellia it is important not to plant them too deep. Planting at the same soil level as they are in the pot or slightly above that, with just a light layer of mulch to retain moristure, is a good idea.  Camellias perfer somewhat acidic soil so using either sulfur or soil acidifier is recommended.  Prune after blooming in the spring and fertilize at the same time with cottonseed meal or Azalea and Camellia fertilizer.

We grow two types of Camellias in our area along the Gulf Coast.  Camellia Sasanqua is a smaller bush with smaller foliage and blooms.  Use as a handsome hedge, evergreen background or espalier on a fence or wall.  Camellia Japonica produces larger blooms on a larger shrub.  Best used as a specimen, to create a screen, as part of a woodland border, in Japanese-style gardens, and in large container.  The varieties of Camellias we carry can take down to zero degrees once established and will reach between 4 and 15 fee tall.

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