Camellia

Fertilizing

Camellias require specialized acidic fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants like azaleas and hydrangeas. During the growing season, apply liquid fertilizer weekly or organic solid fertilizer monthly. Hold off fertilizing while the tree is flowering to avoid interfering with bloom development. For optimal results, use a low-phosphorus fertilizer to prevent elongated foliage and maintain compact growth.

Proper fertilization promotes vibrant foliage color and abundant flowering. Heavy organic fertilization particularly benefits camellias, leading to deeper leaf coloration and brilliant blooms when combined with appropriate soil acidity levels.

Placement

Camellias thrive in cool, airy locations with semi-shade during the growing season, especially during peak summer heat. The trees require frost protection in winter and should be moved to a cool, frost-free environment like a cold frame. If kept indoors, place near a bright window for adequate light while protecting from direct sun exposure that could scorch leaves.

Pruning

Perform hard pruning in spring after flowering to encourage back-budding. When shaping, cut new shoots back to 2-3 leaves and remove wilted flowers promptly. Unlike some species, camellias can be pruned year-round to remove unwanted buds and shoots as needed.

For wiring, winter is optimal but requires extra care since the smooth bark marks easily. Always protect branches by wrapping wire with tape or paper before application. Match wire gauge to branch thickness carefully - too thick damages bark while too thin proves ineffective. Guy wires offer a gentler alternative for positioning branches.

Repotting

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring, being especially gentle with root work since camellias are sensitive to root disturbance. Use a well-draining, lime-free soil mix with pH between 5-6 - Kanuma soil is ideal. When repotting, trim roots conservatively (no more than 25-30% reduction) and ensure the new mix can maintain consistent moisture while allowing proper drainage.

Watering

Maintain constant moisture without waterlogging - the rootball should never completely dry out but also shouldn't stay saturated. Check that the top inch of soil has dried between waterings in summer. In winter, allow slightly more drying between waterings while still keeping roots moderately moist. Use non-alkaline water with neutral to slightly acidic pH - collected rainwater is perfect. The ability to water frequently while maintaining good drainage makes proper soil selection critical.

References

Bonsai Empire - Camellia Care Guide Miyagi Bonsai - Outdoor Bonsai Care Guides Bonsai Nut Forum - Camellia Care Discussion