🌿 Camellia Plant Basics
Botanical Name: Camellia japonica, Camellia sasanqua, etc.

Zones: USDA 7–9 (some can handle zone 6)

Light: Partial shade (morning sun, afternoon shade is ideal)

Soil: Acidic (pH 5.5–6.5), well-draining, rich in organic matter

Bloom Time: Fall to early spring (variety-dependent)

🌞 Light Requirements
Best: Dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade

Avoid: Harsh afternoon sun (can scorch leaves) and deep shade (reduces blooms)

💧 Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy

Use mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature

Water deeply 1–2 times/week during dry spells

Avoid wetting the leaves to prevent fungal issues

🌱 Soil and Fertilization
Soil should be:

Acidic

Rich in humus

Well-draining (they hate "wet feet")

Fertilizer:

Use an acid-loving plant fertilizer (like for azaleas or rhododendrons)

Feed after blooming in spring and again in early summer

Avoid feeding in fall—it can trigger new growth that frost may damage

✂️ Pruning
Best time: Right after flowering

Remove:

Dead or crossing branches

Old or weak stems to open up the center

Spent blooms (optional but helps appearance)

🛡️ Common Issues & Treatment
1. Yellowing Leaves
Causes:

Poor drainage

Overwatering

Alkaline soil

Solution:

Check drainage, adjust watering, acidify soil with peat or sulfur

2. Bud Drop
Causes:

Sudden temperature changes

Over/underwatering

Poor light

Solution:

Consistent care, avoid disturbing roots, mulch for temperature stability

3. Sooty Mold
Often a sign of aphids or scale insects

Treatment:

Use insecticidal soap or neem oil

Remove pests first, then gently wash mold off leaves

4. Tea Scale (white underside pests)
Treatment:

Horticultural oil sprays (apply in late winter or early spring)

🪴 Container Camellias
Choose a large container with drainage holes

Use acidic potting mix

Water more frequently than in-ground plants

Protect in winter if you're in colder zones

❄️ Winter Protection
Mulch around roots to prevent freezing

For young plants, cover with burlap during frosty nights

Container camellias can be moved to a sheltered spot