What are the cultivation methods for camellias in the north
The editor will share with you the experience of cultivating camellias in the north and the correct skills for caring for camellias, as follows:
Due to the significant differences in water, soil, and climate conditions between the north and the south, it is necessary to master the right care methods to cultivate camellias in the north. The following is an introduction by an experienced gardener on how to grow camellias in the north.
One: Suitable soil
Soil is the foundation for the growth of potted camellias, as the root system of camellias relies on the soil for growth and development. The water and nutrients required for the life activities of camellias are mainly absorbed from the soil. Camellias prefer slightly acidic, humus-rich, and loose mountainous red (or yellow) loam soil with a pH value between 5 to 6.5. Alkaline or heavy clay soil should not be used as the growing medium for potted camellias. Soil mixture: mountain soil (aged red loam soil for crop cultivation) 50%, wood chips or edible fungi residue 40%, cake fertilizer powder or livestock manure and phosphate fertilizer powder 10%, mix the three ingredients evenly, water appropriately, pack and age for more than 20 days in summer and autumn, and more than 30 days in spring and winter. This soil is not only loose and well-ventilated but also retains fertilizer and water, making it suitable for the growth and development of camellias.
Camellia
Two: Moderate sunlight
Camellias require suitable sunlight and are sensitive to high temperatures and direct sunlight. In spring and late autumn, move the camellias to a sunny balcony or ground area to receive full-day sunlight, promoting plant growth and bud differentiation for healthy flower buds. In the summer when the sun is strongest, move the pots to a well-lit but shaded, well-ventilated environment, or to the north balcony or under the south balcony. You can also use 75% shade netting to cover the plants from 9 am to 5 pm to avoid direct sunlight, which can cause leaf damage or stem withering. If possible, move the camellias to a sun shelter for a safe summer.
Three: Appropriate temperature
Temperature is an important condition for the physiological activities of camellias. Camellias prefer warm conditions, with the optimal growth temperature being between 18°C to 25°C and relative humidity of 60% to 65%. The growth of camellias usually starts in the second half of March with the sprouting of spring shoots, followed by the formation of terminal buds in the middle to late May, then the growth stops, and leaf or flower buds gradually differentiate. It takes 180 to 240 days from bud formation to flowering. Although camellias can tolerate low temperatures, sudden drops in temperature below 0°C or dry northwestern winds can cause frost damage to young branches, and frozen flower buds will wither. Therefore, move the pots to a south-facing location for safe overwintering.
Camellia
Four: Appropriate humidity
Camellias have many large leaves with rapid transpiration. They prefer a humid climate and moist soil. Therefore, sufficient water should be provided for potted camellias, with watering once a day during the spring and autumn growing seasons, twice a day during the hot "dog days" of summer, and additional watering or spraying on the ground and around the pots if the ground is dry, to maintain a certain level of air humidity for lush growth. Also, be aware that excessive watering, especially with tap water, can lead to soil alkalization over time. Therefore, add 0.5% to 1% ferrous sulfate solution to the water monthly, or use a 5% to 8% edible vinegar solution for foliar application. Camellias prefer moist soil but can suffer from waterlogging. If the pot accumulates water during rainy days, it must be drained promptly to prevent root rot.
Five: Appropriate nutrients
Camellias are fond of fertilizer due to their robust growth, numerous leaves, and long blooming period, requiring a high amount of fertilizer. During the fertilization process, sufficient liquid fertilizer should be applied, combined with long-acting fertilizer when repotting. Depending on the size of the pot, apply 3 to 80 grams of decomposed cake fertilizer powder or dried chicken and duck manure mixed with the bottom soil. Organic fertilizer should be added according to the growth stage of the plant. Apart from the coldest and hottest times of winter and summer, apply decomposed cake water once or twice a month. The application method is to dig 2 inches of soil around the pot, apply the liquid fertilizer in the trench, and cover it with soil to avoid odors. You can also apply decomposed cake fertilizer powder around the pot and mix it with the soil, allowing the plant to absorb it slowly. Urban gardeners can purchase special flower fertilizers from the market, which are hygienic and safe. To promote better growth, apply foliar feeding once or twice a month during the vigorous growth period of camellias with 0.2% to 0.3% potassium dihydrogen phosphate and 1% to 2% plant growth regulators. The principle of fertilization is: lighter rather than heavier, dilute rather than concentrated, and less rather than more,坚持薄肥勤施 method, especially do not apply raw fertilizer.
Camellia
Six: Suitable environment
Camellias thrive in environments with moderate air movement, loving the gentle breeze that brings humidity from the southeast wind. However, they are sensitive to northwestern and strong winds, which can cause excessive water evaporation, disrupt the balance of water supply and demand, damage the leaves, and lead to bud and flower drop. In winter, camellias should be placed in a wind-sheltered, sunny environment with appropriate temperature and humidity. In spring and autumn, move the pots to the balcony for ventilation and sunlight, and gentle breeze, which not only promotes healthy plant growth and aids in bud differentiation and flower development but also reduces the occurrence of diseases and pests. Years of practice have shown that moderate ventilation and suitable sunlight can prevent diseases and pests.
The above are the cultivation methods and correct skills for caring for camellias in the north. I hope this article can provide you with some help!