Camellias not flowering

justflowers · April 2023

I have looked at previous discussions on this, but haven't really found an answer to my question. I have two Camellias, planted around five years ago in a fairly sheltered North facing bed - both flowered the second year of planting, however , last year only one flowered and this year neither did. There is also some frost damage to leaves, although most are healthy and glossy. I have read that Camellias hate being moved, so am reluctant to do this. Should I risk moving them to the other side of the garden - where we have a well established Camellia which flowers prolifically every year - or should I cover them with fleece during the coldest months and hope for better results?

Looking forward to some advice!

Obelixx · April 2023

It could well be that these two are in a rain shadow and not getting enough rainfall at their roots during the period when flower buds are formed - July to October. Even if buds do form the plant will abort them to save energy if there is a problem thru winter and spring.

Try ensuring your plants are well watered this coming summer and give them a liquid feed of something like rose or tomato food and some ericaceous tonic too. This info may help:
https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/camellia/growing-guide

Fairygirl · April 2023

It's usually lack of water at the right time that causes the problem, as @Obelixx says, so that's the main thing to ensure. North facing is usually fine for aspect, as it's shadier and means they won't dry out so easily, but it also depends what else is around them. Up against a house wall could be very dry, for example, and they could be competing for available moisture there.
The frost damage isn't really a problem, but is there a chance they're in a bit of a frost pocket too? They'll produce new growth, as all evergreens do.

They don't need fleeced unless you're in the north east of Scotland or similar, and even then - if they're in the right site they're fine, and it would only tend to be a problem if they're potted, and they'd be better brought inside if that was the case.
A photo or two would help if you can manage it

justflowers · April 2023

Thanks both - I think the issue is water - our garden tends to be dry and we had very little rain here between July and October last year. I give them a weekly feed of a mix of liquid growmore and seaweed between March and September, so I think they're well fed enough. I'll make sure I pay more attention to watering them in future!

Fairygirl · April 2023

It's better to feed the ground with lots of organic matter rather than adding 'processed' feeds. Plenty of mulching after they're thoroughly moistened. That will also cut down on extra watering as the soil will retain it better.
They really don't need fed if the soil's right, although an occasional one does no harm

Obelixx · April 2023

Instead of feeding a stressed plant, try giving it a good drink of 15 litres poured slowly so it soaks in and doesn't just run off. The frequency for this will depend on the size of the plant but at least once a week up to daily in hot spells like we had last year.

justflowers · April 2023

I've never mulched the Camellias, although we make our own compost and I use that on roses. I'll try that as well as upping the watering. I tend not to water shrubs - other than roses - which I think is my mistake here.

Thanks again.

bédé · April 2023

Not enough water at flower bud setting time. They may form, but drop of at an advanced satge.,

justflowers · April 2023

Thanks - I'll make sure to water from July to October and hope for some blooms next year!!

Camellias not flowering

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