CAMELLIAS

Posts

• WAMS Posts: 1,960

  September 2022

  I'd put ericaceous compost in the hole rather than multipurpose, having tested the soil to make sure it was acidic enough generally for camellias.
  
  (That said, I tested the soil when I arrived here and the device said it was acidic - 5.0 in places, 6 in others. My camellias still didn't thrive in the ground because there was a layer of chalk a bit further down and lumps of it in the soil- they didn't die but nor were the leaves healthy, and last year only one out of four flowered. So, the meter wasn't very helpful. They are now growing very well in pots with ericaceous compost, rhodendron feed and regular watering with rainwater.)

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• Fairygirl Posts: 55,117

  September 2022

  As long as your clay soil is well enough draining [decent drainage is just as important as enough moisture]  it doesn't have to be acidic. Neutral soil is fine for Camellias, as long as it isn't at the alkaline end. Regular applications of compost/bark, or any organic matter is also beneficial. Leaf mould is particularly good if you can make that. It all keeps the soil healthy, which is far better than 'artificial' food   
  The site will be fine - they're technically woodland plants, so they prefer some shade. Afternoon sun is kinder than morning/mid day sun too, especially during the flowering period when the sun after frosts can cause problems to new buds/flowers. Plenty of water from late summer into autumn is also required [as with rhodos/azaleas] to ensure good bud formation. 

  It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....
  
  
  
  I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...

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• macfall Posts: 34

  September 2022

  Thank you
  

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