What is the best time to transplant camellias?
As one of the top ten famous traditional Chinese flowers, camellias are deeply favored by horticulture enthusiasts. Whenever seedlings need to be repotted or transplanted, there are always people who cause the plants to wither due to improper operations. What season is best for transplanting camellias? What should be paid attention to in the maintenance of different stages?
Best Time for Transplanting Camellias
Golden Period of Late Autumn Dormancy
From late October to mid-November each year, camellias enter a semi-dormant state, and at this time, the plants store nutrients in their roots. Transplanting on a clear day with a stable day-night temperature difference of 5-10°C can retain the maximum amount of nutrient reserves, and soil improvement can increase the survival rate to over 90%.
Critical Period of Early Spring Bud Break
Seize the window period after the soil thaws in early spring, February to March, to transplant before new buds sprout. At this time, the plant's metabolism gradually becomes active, and the root recovery ability is enhanced, especially suitable for operations in northern regions. Pay attention to the state of the bud points; if they have unfolded leaves, the operation should be postponed.
Post-Flowering Recovery and Adjustment Period
Transplant within 15 days after the flowering period, and be especially careful to retain the original soil ball. It is recommended to keep at least 60% of the protective heart soil and wrap the roots with non-woven fabric to prevent the soil from falling apart. Transplanting at this stage can synchronize with post-flowering pruning, but avoid cutting off more than 1/3 of the branches.
Key Points of Post-Transplant Care
Container Selection and Substrate Ratio
Choose a breathable ceramic pot, with a diameter 5-8cm larger than the original soil ball. The self-mixed soil can be combined in a ratio of leaf mold soil: pine needle soil: river sand = 5:3:2, with 2g of sulfur powder added per kilogram of substrate to adjust the pH.
Water and Fertilizer Management Schedule
Water thoroughly after transplanting for the first time, then keep the soil slightly moist. Absolutely no fertilizing for the first 30 days, and after new leaves have unfolded, apply a diluted solution of 1000 times sulfuric iron. Organic fertilizer can be applied in the spring of the following year, by burying decomposed soybean cake fertilizer around the pot edge.
Environmental Adaptation Control
After transplanting, a sunshade shed needs to be set up to maintain 60% scattered light. If the leaf edges become scorched, a 0.1% vinegar solution can be sprayed on the back of the leaves weekly. In winter, special attention should be paid to wind protection when transplanting, and a bamboo screen can be used to create a mini greenhouse effect.
Mastering the three golden periods for camellia transplantation, combined with scientific maintenance methods, even ten-year-old old stakes can be successfully rejuvenated. The key is to follow the plant's growth rhythm, complete root adjustments during the dormant period, and focus on nutrient supply during the growing period, to ensure that camellias bloom beautifully every year.