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Cam and Azalea

jonn_07jonn_07 Posts: 7
edited March 2021 in Problem solving
Good afternoon.. I have a camellia sasanqua and Azalea waiting to be put in my garden, I’m aware of their requirements regarding soil, mulching, feeding etc but my garden is literally split into either deep shade or full sun and no in between! Does it really matter what they get as long as everything else is fine? 

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  • luis_prluis_pr Posts: 123
    edited March 2021
    Well, it depends. They all appreciate some sun in order to produce more flower buds. But if concerned about getting too much sun, that usually depends on how strong the sun is where one lives. If you really have dense shade, that may inhibit flower bud production. Azaleas, where I live, require afternoon/evening shade but I have also seen them growing in full sun much, much north of me (where the summer sun is not as bad). Ironically, a bit more shade can be good... it may attract more beneficial insects  which might minimize infestation by pests like azalea lace bugs.

    Camellia sasanquas can "do" full sun. They have small leaves that can handle full sun exposure for months during the summer months, even with temps above 37C/100F. With camellia japonicas, sinensis, reticulatas or hybrids, I would stick to shade starting at 10am or so. You can sometimes "create" proper shade in full sun by using other taller plants, shade cloth and garden "objects".

    For sure, only by trying could you tell: I would suggest growing them in containers at first and moving the containers around if you have issues with any one location. While potted, consider temporarily bringing them into a winter protected location if your temps get very cold outside during the winter months. Some terra cotta pots can crack if it gets too cold.
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