How to Care for Camellias to Make Them Flourish
Every time camellias bloom, there are always people worrying about the bare branches. This traditional Chinese famous flower may seem delicate, but with a firm grasp of the key points of care, it can burst into a full tree of flowers during the winter and spring. Today, we will break down practical techniques for caring for camellias at home, which even beginners can easily master.
Golden Rules for Growing Healthy Camellias
Soil Configuration Determines Survival Rate
Camellias are typical southern acid plants, and their roots are extremely sensitive to the soil environment. For ground planting, it is recommended to choose a slope with a sunny and sheltered direction, using decomposed leaf soil mixed with coarse river sand to improve heavy clay soil. A potting soil scheme can be tried: 50% pine needle soil + 30% akadama soil + 15% fermented pine bark + 5% bone meal, this formula not only retains water and allows breathability but also continuously releases nutrients.
Light and Temperature Control Affect Bloom Amount
In spring and autumn, it is recommended to receive 5 hours of scattered light daily, and move to the shade net before 10 am in summer. A maintenance detail often overlooked is: during the flower bud differentiation period (September-October), ensure a day-night temperature difference of over 8°C, with a night temperature of 12-15°C being ideal. In northern heating rooms, you can try closing the windows at night to cool down and using grow lights to extend the duration of sunlight.
Watering Techniques for Shiny Leaves
Using a diluted 1000-fold solution of ferrous sulfate instead of regular watering monthly can maintain an acidic soil environment. Share a tip: collect rainwater or snow and store it; this natural soft water has the best irrigation effect. During consecutive cloudy and rainy days, you can sprinkle bamboo charcoal granules on the pot surface to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Fertilizing Timing Determines the Number of Flower Buds
In March, during the germination period, use fish entrail water to promote new branches, and switch to monopotassium phosphate spray in June to promote flower buds. A key timing point to remember is: immediately stop applying nitrogen fertilizer after the buds appear, and switch to a diluted rice vinegar solution (1:200) to effectively reduce bud drop. In winter, apply sesame cake fertilizer, which can keep warm and slowly release nutrients.
Actually, caring for camellias is like dating, requiring patience and observation of its growth rhythm. When the leaf edges curl slightly, it's time to water; yellowing new leaves may indicate iron deficiency, while yellowing old leaves may suggest soil alkalization. Remember these signals and pair them with scientific maintenance methods, and your camellias will surely amaze everyone year after year.