Camellia sasanqua, a beautiful autumn- and winter-flowering camellia. These evergreen shrubs are hardy, easy to grow, and perfect for UK gardens, patios, or even in pots.
* Planting
- Best Time: Autumn or spring (avoid frozen or waterlogged soil).
- Location: Partial shade or dappled sunlight (tolerates more sun than other camellias).
- Soil: Acidic, well-draining soil (pH 5.5–6.5). Use ericaceous compost if needed.
- Spacing: 1–1.5m apart for hedging; single plants need room to spread.
- Pot Growing: Use a large container with ericaceous compost and drainage holes.
* Watering
- Keep soil moist but not soggy, especially in dry spells.
- Use rainwater instead of tap water (especially in hard water areas).
* Feeding
- Spring & summer: Apply ericaceous fertiliser (slow-release or liquid).
- Avoid high-nitrogen feeds, as they promote leaf growth over flowers.
* Pruning
- Minimal pruning needed—just trim after flowering to maintain shape.
- Remove dead or weak branches to encourage airflow.
* Protection & General Care
- Mulch annually (bark, leaf mould) to retain moisture & suppress weeds.
- Protect from cold winds & late frosts, especially young plants.
- Watch for yellowing leaves (could indicate alkaline soil or nutrient deficiency).
- Check for aphids & scale insects—treat with soapy water or neem oil if needed.
