A&M and Auburn Universities CamelliasThe Culture of ANR-0202 The State Flower of Alabama Origin and History rom the ancient temple ­gardens of China and Japan, F through the ornate conserva- tories of eighteenth century Europe, to the stately plantations of Amer- ica’s nineteenth century South, the has been a pampered and cherished , a living symbol of elegance and aristocracy. Legends of mythology and romance, fancy and fiction have made the camellia seem more rare and expensive, more delicate and difficult to grow than it really is. Gardeners today are rediscovering the camellia as an easy to grow evergreen flowering with many uses, incredible ruggedness, and great beauty. A wider variety of flower forms, new hybrids, - lings, and hardy as well as improved cultural techniques and devices have pushed the outdoor Kate Mallory growing areas of the American camellia belt farther north each The name camellia was given to is , the common year. Even in the coldest regions, the genus by the Swedish botanist plant. Camellia japonica is the the camellia has become a fixture Linnaeus, who developed the bino- most widely grown ornamental in the home greenhouse. mial system of nomenclature used species of the genus. More than to classify . The pronunciation 20,000 varieties or of various of camellia as either ca-mee-lia species and hybrids generally grown ARCHIVEor ca-mell-ia is acceptable. The by amateur camellia hobbyists in the natural home of the camellia is an English-speaking world have been area encompassing Southeast Asia, described. Flower colors, shapes, China, Japan, and various islands and and bloom sizes show remarkable countries from Viet Nam to Burma. diversity. Seedlings of crosses with More than 200 species of Camellia reticulata and other species have been identified with most of have produced extensive variations these being distributed throughout in flower and leaf sizes and growth southern China. The most economi- habits. Camellia sasan­qua is another Ville de Nantes cally important species of the genus widely grown species. www.aces.edu Classification of Cultivars • Class VI, FORMAL DOUBLE, Varieties (Cultivars) Fully imbricated, many rows or Varieties With more cold hardy varieties of , never showing Camellias vary in color, size, and becoming available, camellias are (Grace Albritton) form depending on the season, now being grown all over Alabama. location, soil, nutrition of the plant, Blooming periods for the south- In addition to the southern United and the aerial environment. The eastern United States are identified States, camellias are popular in division and classification of the as follows: Australia, China, England, France, flower forms, colors, and sizes of Germany, Japan, New Zealand, camellias have been established by • E. (Early), September to early Southeast Asia, and southern the American Camellia Society in November Europe, as well as , the official nomenclature book as • E.-M. (Early to Midseason), D.C., , and . follows: Early November to Mid The camellia selections in Table 1 • Class I, SINGLE, One row December are especially suitable for beginning of not over eight regular, • M. (Midseason), Mid camellia enthusiasts in Alabama. irregular, or loose petals and December to Mid February Nursery workers may not have conspicuous stamens (Yule- them all. Be sure you consult a tide) • L. (Late), Mid February to Mid local camellia grower or county March, varying with the year Extension agent before paying for a • Class II, SEMI-DOUBLE, Two variety unknown to you or a variety Some camellia varieties sport or more rows of regular, that is not listed in one of the three (mutate) freely, producing new irregular, or loose petals and tables in this publication. Start with color forms. This provides even conspicuous stamens (Frank some of these 12 varieties, join a more variability to the species and Houser) local camellia club and the Amer- genus. • Class III, ANEMONE, One ican Camellia Society, and attend a or more rows of large outer camellia show to decide your next petals lying flat or undulating; plants for purchase or grafting. the center a convex mass of intermingled petaloids and Table 1. Varieties for the Beginning Camellia Grower stamens (Elegans) Sparkling Burgundy: A C. sasanqua that blooms profusely early, , ruby + lavender • Class IV, PEONY, A deep rounded flower of either a Donation: Hybrid of C. saluensis x C. japonica, semi-double, pink, heavy Loose Peony Form consisting bloomer. These two camellias are great for hedges or for a great splash of color, of loose petals, which may but not for the vase. be irregular, and intermingled Adolphe Audusson (& Sports): Blooms midseason, semi-double, red, average stamens, and sometimes growth rate intermingled petals, petaloids, Betty Sheffield (& Sports): Midseason, semi-double, white and pink combina- and stamens in the center tions, average growth rate (Vedrine) or a Full Peony Form consisting of a convex Debutante: Blooms before Christmas, peony form, midseason, light pink mass of mixed irregular Dixie Knight (& Sports): Mid- to late-season, loose peony, irregular petals, red petals, petaloids, and stamens or irregular petals and - Elizabeth Boardman: Midseason, semi-double with fluted petals, white with ARCHIVEmedium growth rate oids never showing stamens (Debutante) Fran Mathis: Early to midseason, semi-double, champagne pink • Class V, ROSE FORM Grand Slam: Midseason, semi-double to anemone form, brilliant dark red DOUBLE, Imbricated (layered R. L. Wheeler: Early to midseason, semi-double to anemone, very large, pink like scales) petals, showing stamens in a concave Royal Velvet: Midseason, semi-double, dark velvet red center when fully opened Ville de Nantes: Mid- to late-season, semi-double, red and white, slow growth rate (Mathotiana) 2 Alabama Cooperative Extension System The Culture of Camellias 3 The Environment for only early and late flowering, Water single, semi-double, and peony Growing Camellias Adequate water is necessary for form camellia varieties should be quality and quantity of blooms as Location planted outside in the northern half well as for proper development of Alabama. In the southern half of Some camellias can be grown in of new stems and foliage after the the state, camellias can be grown full sun, although most grow and blooming period. The supplemental without too much concern; however, produce better flowers in partial watering routine of the individual many camellia enthusiasts grow their shade where the blooms and grower depends on the species of prize camellias under protection in foliage are protected from sunburn. camellia, the size and age of the plastic or glass greenhouses. However, camellias in dense shade plant, soil type, air temperature, often become spindly and produce Soil humidity, and rainfall throughout fewer blooms. A site under pine the year in his or her locality. is ideal because pines provide Camellias will grow in sandy, filtered light year-round for growth, loamy, or clay soils that vary greatly Soil Aeration winter protec­ tion, and natural in their water-holding capacity and The top growth of all plants is mulch from the pine needles. in the presence of the essential directly related to the extent and Do not plant camellias where elements of nitrogen, phosphorus, vigor of the root system. Physical hardwood shade trees with shallow and potassium (NPK). All soils characteristics of the soil, such as root systems will compete with the contain these ­elements and may air and water-holding capacity, camellias for nutrients and water. also contain the trace elements of determine, to a large extent, the Avoid windy, exposed sites since iron, magnesium, copper, calcium, growth and useful activity of wind can be detrimental for camel- and others. Good garden loam plant roots. An ideal soil is actu- lias in winter and summer. containing organic matter (leaf ally composed of 50 percent soil mold, compost, or humus) would particles and 50 percent pore space Cold Hardiness be expected to contain these half filled with water. Varieties and the different flower essential elements as well as the forms vary in their resistance to trace elements to some degree. A healthy root system results in cold. Generally, cold spells with Camellias do well in soils with an vigorous foliage growth in camel- temperatures below 20 degrees acid reaction (pH 5.0 to 6.5) and do lias. Excessive soil water fills the air F reduce the size of the blooms. poorly in alkaline conditions (pH spaces and reduces the oxygen for It usually takes less cold to affect above 7.0). Contact your county respiration by the roots. Too much the blooms and bloom buds than Extension agent for information soil water causes the accumulation it takes to affect the plant itself. about the soil analyses offered of carbon dioxide and other gases, Open blooms can be damaged by by the Auburn University Soil which can be toxic to the roots and temperatures of 26 degrees F, but Testing Lab. The texture of the soil can provide a favorable environ- may be untouched at 28 degrees determines its capacity for water ment for root-rotting fungi. Thus, F, if partially shaded or recently retention and its ability to hold excessive soil water kills plant wet by rain. Some varieties, double nutrients. Clay soils hold moisture roots, leaving the plant unable to flowers in particular, often fail to longer than sandy and loamy soils, absorb adequate water. This results produce typical or perfect blooms but they are less permeable. They in drought symptoms in the leaves, after the temperature has dropped tend to shed water, unless a mulch including wilting and browning of below 20 degrees F. However, of coarser materials (pine needles the margins or tips of the leaves. damage can occur between 20 or pine bark) allows the water to Nutrient uptake is reduced. Iron degrees F and 30 degreesARCHIVE F if the filter through gently. The natural deficiency symptoms (yellowing drop occurs quickly after a period soil for camellias contains humus or between the veins of younger of warm weather. Camellias in a well-decomposed organic matter, is leaves) are often the first indica- northern or western exposure, acid in reaction, and is highly reten- tions of root injury. Although poor unless otherwise protected from tive of moisture but drains well. aeration and drainage are common intense winter morning sun, will In camellia culture, the value of causes of root problems, drought, usually stand more cold weather organic matter cannot be overem- excessive fertilization, plants set than those in an eastern or phasized, since it improves aeration too deep, and other undesirable southern exposure. Therefore, and drainage and adds moderately cultural practices can reduce root to soil acidity. 2 Alabama Cooperative Extension System The Culture of Camellias 3 efficiency and result in poor plant growth. High populations of root-infecting nematodes also can reduce plant vigor by feeding on the roots and reducing the area of the root that actively supplies the plant with water and nutrients. Drainage Camellias are native to high rainfall areas and to sites providing good natural drainage. Camellias require both soil aeration and water. After establishment, camellias will survive drought longer than they will tolerate poorly drained soils. Figure 1. Place plant on mound built in Figure 2. Backfill the hole with soil to a Camellias with long-established the bottom of the planting hole. The top level about halfway to the top of the root root systems require infrequent of the root ball should be 1 inch above ball. Water thoroughly, fill the remainder watering except under extreme the surrounding ground. of the hole, water again, and add mulch. drought stress. the soil with 2 to 4 inches of pine Fertilizing straw, pine bark, or leaves. Mulch Planting and Caring holds moisture, reduces surface Camellias are not generally fertil- for Camellias evaporation, keeps the soil cooler, ized the first year after planting, especially if the soil is high in Planting suppresses weeds, and eliminates the need for cultivation. The root organic matter. After the first year, The best time to plant camel- ball of the plant should be at least 1 apply fertilizer in the spring after lias is early fall or winter, when inch above the surrounding ground blooming but before new growth temperatures are above freezing. level since the camellia will settle starts. With many fertilizers, small Container-grown plants can with subsequent watering and amounts at frequent intervals are be transplanted or repotted at rainfall. Container-grown plants are better than heavy applications. any time of the year. Planting sometimes root-bound. The root Special camellia fertilizers as well and transplanting both require ball should be broken by cutting it as 8-8-8, 10-6-4, cottonseed meal, meticulous care, depending on open with a knife in three or four or cow manure are available at the size and age of the plant. If places so the new roots will grow your local seed store. Some fertil- possible, prepare the site and soil into the planting mix. Do not over- izers have up to 70 percent of the several weeks before planting. Most water in any soil type. Spacing of nitrogen in a slow-release form, camellia enthusiasts recommend plants depends on the natural habit which is less likely to burn the digging a hole in sandy and loamy and form of the camellia variety—6 roots. One application in early soils twice the diameter and as to 8 feet apart should be adequate spring after blooming should be deep as 11⁄2 times the height of for most varieties. followed by a second application the plant’s root ball. In tight (clay) in mid June to early July. A soil test soil, the planting hole should be Mulching is the best way to determine the even larger. Build a mound of one nutrient status of the soil. Scatter part soil and one part fine pine Immediately after planting and the fertilizer evenly on top of the ARCHIVEwatering, camellias should be bark mixed in the bottom center of mulch and away from the main the hole (Figure 1). Place the plant mulched 2 to 4 inches deep with stem of the plant. Water the fertil- on the mound and fill with your pine needles, pine bark, or leaves. izer into the soil. Do not fertilize planting mix halfway to the top of Peat moss and sawdust (unless old after July so the plants will have a the root ball (Figure 2). and well rotted) are generally not longer time to harden off and avoid good for use as mulch since they freeze damage. Soak thoroughly and finish filling can form a crust when they dry, the hole with soil mix, water again, making it difficult to get water and and mulch the watered surface of air to the roots. 4 Alabama Cooperative Extension System The Culture of Camellias 5 Pruning vegetative bud flower bud Camellias require only light pruning, if any, to remove dead wood, to shape into compact plants, and to thin inside limbs to increase air movement. The best time to prune is after blooming and before new flower and vegetative buds form. Figure 3. Remove the vegetative bud and apply 1 drop gibberellic acid (GA) solution.­ Disbudding Propagation of camellias ripen in the fall, Disbudding is usually done to usually in September and October. Camellias can be propagated increase the size and quality of They germinate quicker if planted from seed (sexually), by rooted the blooms. This is attained by immediately after harvest. A germi- cuttings, by cleft grafting, and by removing excess flower buds to nating medium composed of peat air layering (asexually). 2 one per terminal. Disbudding varies moss or ⁄3 sphagnum moss and depending on the age, size, and 1 Sexual Propagation ⁄3 Perlite is recommended. If not variety of camellia. It is usually planted at once, the seed coat of done in late August and September. Propagation By Seed camellias hardens in storage. Some growers crack hardened seeds Gibbing This is the easiest method for producing a large number of with pliers or nick them with a file Gibbing is the application of the camellia plants. If naturally occur- to allow moisture to enter more plant hormone gibberellic acid ring seed are personally collected, readily to swell and germinate the (GA) to a spot near the bloom acquire them from vigorous- seed. The peat moss or sphagnum bud to induce earlier than normal growing varieties that are known moss should be moistened and blooming for the variety. It also seed producers. Then, if they grow then squeezed dry before mixing increases the size, texture, and into vigorous plants but have poor with the Perlite. Perlite is sterile, keeping quality of the bloom, but it blooms, they can still be used for and the pH of peat moss is low often changes the color. GA is avail- grafting understock. Plants from enough to prevent bacterial able from many sources, including seed will vary in flower color and growth. Perlite permits water to the American Camellia Society. The form and are usually unlike either filter through freely, still holding recommended mixture is 1 gram of parent. Chance seedlings, however, adequate moisture. Plant seeds with GA to 2 ounces of distilled water, are the way most new varieties eye down, which is where the root which should be refrigerated when have originated in the past. Today, will break out, and cover with a not in use. Gibbing is done in deliberate varietal and hybridizing ¼-inch layer of peat moss or Perlite. late summer (after Labor Day) by crosses are originating many new Planting can be in a flat of breaking or twisting out the vegeta- varieties. If you make varietal individual containers (peat pots), tive bud at the base of a flower bud. crosses, be sure to keep accurate while seed of known origin can be Use a small eye dropper to place 1 records and make reciprocal crosses planted in flats in rows. Individu- drop of GA in the small receptacle of varieties with characteristics that ally numbered stakes are used to of the growth bud (Figure 3). Most, you desire. If your crosses result in identify each seed source. After but not all, varieties respond favor- seed, great! Plant the seed—a new planting seed, thoroughly water ably to gibbing. Do not gib young variety may have been developed. with a fine spray or mist. The time plants. Even on mature plants, gib ARCHIVEWater, heat, and light are the three between waterings will depend on only a few buds each week—never heat, light, and location of the flat all the buds. Results can be noted most important factors for rapid or container. Many hobbyists put in 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the seed germination. Excess water camellia seed in large-mouthed variety, location, and environment. is the most likely factor to cause seed rotting. If the drainage of the jars or plastic bags in thoroughly medium is good and relatively moistened peat moss and then sterile, chances of rot are slim. Seed keep them on top of a water heater can be germinated in a greenhouse or other warm place. Germinated or home or stored until spring. seeds are removed when the 4 Alabama Cooperative Extension System The Culture of Camellias 5 taproot reaches 2 inches in length. deep box or bin with openings for and is topdressed with low levels The tip is pinched off before drainage in the bottom. Place 1 or 2 of fertilizer, such as 18-6-8 or liquid planting in 4-inch or larger pots. inches of a good soil in the bottom 20-20-20. The normal growing span before to cover a layer of gravel before camellia seedlings bloom is 3 to 5 adding 4 to 6 inches of the rooting Propagation By Cleft Grafting years. During this time, the plants medium. Cover with clear plastic, The cleft graft is a widely used will require pruning and good such as dry-cleaning bags. The box method of propagating camellias. cultural treatment to develop good must be deep enough to allow for Any vigorous camellia can be used quality plants. 6 to 8 inches of cutting growth. Be for rootstock, although C. sasanqua sure the box is shaded. Both proce- is widely used because of its vigor, Asexual Propagation dures require checking for moisture disease resistance, and ability to Asexual propagation provides a way levels and high humidity, which are withstand varying soil conditions. to reproduce camellias that is important for root development of On the other hand, vigorous certain to yield the variety desired. the cuttings. growing C. japonica and seedlings Asexual propagation methods with poor blooms may be superior, After 2 to 3 months, camellia include rooting cuttings, cleft and being more cold resistant and more cuttings should have developed surrogate grafting, and air layering. compatible. Grafting outdoors is a fibrous root system varying usually done in mid to late February with the variety and the growing Propagation By Cuttings and early March. It can be done in environment. Rooted cuttings can a greenhouse in December. The Camellia cuttings can be rooted be potted to large peat pots or understock may vary in diameter in almost any season, although the directly into 1-gallon containers in a from ¾ to 1½ inches and should be optimal time is July, after the new soil high in organic matter. Do not cut or sawed off smoothly about spring growth has hardened. A plant too deeply, whatever the size 2 to 3 inches above the ground or greenhouse, cold frame, or a deep- of container used. It is the health first lateral root (Figure 4a). Use a rooting box is needed. Cuttings and vigor of the rooted cutting and knife to split the stem of the under- are taken from 3 to 5 inches of not the size of the container that stock (Figure 4b). Select the scion terminal hardened growth. The is important. The soil medium in from healthy plants and from the bottom leaves are removed from the container should have a pH of mature growth of the past season. the cutting, leaving two to three 5.5 to 6.5. It is important that the Scions should be terminal tips 3 leaves and the vegetative buds on medium drains well, holds nutrients, to 5 inches long (Figure 5a). Use the tip of the cutting. Flower buds holds moisture, is kept in the shade, are removed, if present. Slice off the lower end with a sharp knife or razor at an acute angle. Dip the cut stem end into Rootone, Hormodin, or a similar root-stimulating compound to stimulate rooting before sticking into a nail hole in a b the lightly moistened medium to half the cutting’s length. Firm the Figure 4. Prepare the understock for grafting: (a) choose healthy understock; cut medium, and water the cutting. The straight across about 3 inches above ground; (b) cut down through the center about preferred rooting medium is 1 part 1½ inches. (Large understock may be split twice.) Perlite or peat moss mixed with 1 part sand. When rootingARCHIVE only a few heartwood cuttings, a 1-gallon plastic container cambium of the medium is adequate. After outer bark sticking up to 6 cuttings, place a 2- or 3-liter soft drink bottle with the bottom cut out over the cuttings. a b c Then place the container and bottle Figure 5. Procedure for cleft grafting: (a) select strong tip cutting, leaving enough stem in the shade. When rooting a large to trim to a 1½-inch wedge; (b) pry open split in understock and insert scion wedge (be number of cuttings, use a large sure to align green inner bark); (c) insert two scions, one on each side of the understock.

6 Alabama Cooperative Extension System The Culture of Camellias 7 a sharp knife or razor to fashion a plant to wilt before it becomes secure the foil with string above long, bilateral wedge at the base of acclimated to light and lowered and below the sphagnum to keep the scion. The slit in the understock humidity. When to remove the air out of the ball (Figure 6b). The can be opened and managed with cover over the graft is a matter air-layered plant can be severed an ice pick or screwdriver, while of experience. Protect the young below the ball in about 4 to 6 placing the scion wedges in place. graft from mechanical damage the months and then potted in ­2-gallon It is critical that the cambium layer first year. Mulch with pine straw containers and given protection of the stock and the scion line up and remove sucker sprouts of the for the first winter. Only vigorous (Figure 5b). The cambium layer is understock as they develop. Surro- growing camellias should be air the thin green line within the bark gate, bark, nurse-seed, and wedge layered, since most slow-growing area. It is exposed on both sides grafts have also been used with camellias are usually cleft grafted of the scion wedge. On a ¾-inch camellias. Consult camellia litera- to vigorous understock to improve or larger understock, insert two ture or experts for one of these. their relative rate of growth. scions, one on each side of the Cleft grafting is easy once you have understock (Figure 5c). After the observed it being done properly by Container-Grown Plants scion or scions are placed in the an experienced propagator. Camellias are adaptable to growing split understock, it is important to in 1- to 5-gallon plastic containers Propagation By Air Layering keep the scion humid to permit with drainage holes. The potting callusing. The split stock usually Camellias can be air layered in the medium should also provide good 1 1 holds the scion firm, but it may be spring after the new growth begins drainage. A mixture of ⁄3 soil, ⁄3 1 wrapped with string, rubber ties, or to harden. Select a healthy branch sand, and ⁄3 organic matter (Perlite 3 ⁄8-inch electrician’s tape. The graft 1 to 2 feet in length from tip to or fine pine bark) is excellent for may be covered with moist, sterile base. The stem is usually between growing camellias. Other media 3 5 sand. To maintain the humidity ⁄8 to ⁄8 inch in diameter near the compositions that have been used around the scion cover the graft base. Various methods of wounding are (1) 80 percent fine pine bark with a 1-gallon or larger bleach are practiced. One method is to and 20 percent river sand plus bottle or other opaque container circle cut the bark with a sharp dolomitic limestone, cow manure, with the bottom cut out or with a knife near the base of the branch and trace elements; (2) 3 parts fine large-mouthed brown jar. Burlap or in two places about 2 to 2½ inches pine bark and 1 part Perlite and a brown paper bag will be needed apart. Girdle the stem and remove sandy top soil; (3) 2 parts forest to cover a 1-gallon milk jug (bottom the bark between the circular cuts humus and 1 part sandy loam; (4) cut out) or a large-mouthed jar (Figure 6a). The girdled section of 3 parts fine pine bark, 1 part sand, to protect the graft from sun and the branch is dusted with rooting ½ part soil, and ½ part loose peat excessive heat buildup. Be sure compound and wrapped with moss; and (5) 50 percent peat moss to label the graft, or you will have moist sphagnum moss in the shape and 50 percent sandy loam. Do not to wait until the camellia blooms of a small football and tied in place. plant rooted cuttings or germinated to identify it. The time for callus The sphagnum is wrapped with a seedlings too deep. Firm the formation and bud break varies layer of clear plastic wrap followed medium to reduce air pockets. with the variety and season. It by a wrap of aluminum foil. Tightly is important to have good callus formation uniting the cambiums of the scion and stock before uncovering the graft. It is best to foil aluminum foil lower the humidity under the bottle bound sphagnum moss ARCHIVEtightly or a jar in stages. Removing the lid of the bottle or milk jug or raising around each the jar an inch lowers the humidity 12-18 in (30-45 cm) end and allows some light to enter at moss a bark removed the same time. When the bottle lid bark b and hormone is removed, the light may cause removed applied here the shoot to grow out through the lid area. Do not permit the young Figure 6. Air layering a camellia

6 Alabama Cooperative Extension System The Culture of Camellias 7 Watering is essential during the Problems of the infective spores and the active growing season and is apothecia of the fungus. Start required frequently during drought Diseases the treatment in early December conditions. However, watering Flower Blights and continue every 4 to 6 weeks increases the loss of nutrients from through March. Spray or drench to the medium. Containers with sand Camellia flower blight, or petal wet the soil and mulch thoroughly and pine bark mulch can be fertil- blight, is one of the biggest threats with 2 gallons per 20 square feet. ized with a weak solution of fish to camellia growth. Caused by emulsion (5-2-2) or (5-1-1) applied the fungus Ciborinia camelliae, Botrytis flower blight (gray mold) weekly without fear of burning the formerly Sclerotinia camelliae, it usually infects inside blooms that young plants. Slow-release fertil- infects only the flower tissue of have been damaged by frost, water izers are widely used for container camellias, does not spread from dripping from above, water sprays, plants as are cottonseed meal and flower to flower, and is character- high humidity, or high tempera- other organic fertilizers. Slow- ized by brown spots on the petals tures. Lack of good air circulation release fertilizers can be mixed with that spread rapidly to engulf the is also a contributor. Botrytis any medium before planting. Liquid whole bloom. Infected blooms fall symptoms are very similar to petal fertilizers are also recommended. to the ground and in time produce blight in the bloom, except that Light fertilizer applications biweekly a sclerotium in the base of the Botrytis does not engulf the bloom during the growing season are bloom. These sclerotia are the rapidly. Botrytis-infected blooms do preferred to heavy, less frequent source of survival of the fungus not have the slimy texture associ- applications. Reduce fertilization in until the following year. Sclerotia ated with petal blight. Frequently, late summer and fall as camellias go may lie dormant in the soil up to a gray, powdery fungal growth into the dormant season of winter. 4 years. When warm and humid appears on the flowers, particularly Soil pH is important in container- conditions occur, small, dime- on the stamens or at the base of the grown plants and is kept in the 5.5 sized, brownish-gray mushrooms, blooms. The abundance of spores to 6.5 pH range for camellias. known as apothecia, are produced spreads the fungus from bloom from the sclerotia to liberate the to bloom, damaging each one it After a few years, container plants spores that are the infective stage. touches. It is not a serious problem become root-bound and require This produces another cycle of unless ignored or neglected. Sanita- repotting with the same type petal blight. A community effort tion is the best prevention. Be sure fresh medium. If the roots are is needed to control the disease your plants have good air circula- concentrated on the outside of the since the spores can be carried tion. Your county Extension agent ball, repotting to larger containers by wind for half a mile or more. can recommend fungicides, such as is advisable. The soil is washed It is prevalent and most active in ­thiophanate-methyl or triadimefon from the roots and the pruning of humid areas when the temperatures that will control Botrytis. the root ball is carried out. Using range between 45 degrees F and 70 the same soil mixture, firm and degrees F during the mid- to late- Root Rot thoroughly water. Repotting is best season flowering period. Camellia Root rot can be caused by one of in early spring before new growth petal blight does not infect the two fungi. Phytophthora cinna- starts. Container plants require leaves, stems, or roots of camellias. momi attacks C. japonica and C. winter protection to avoid damage reticulata under certain conditions. Some control can be obtained from freezing temperatures. In mild The fungus does not attack C. by sanitation measures when all climates, container-grown camellias sasanqua and C. oleifera. It can be blooms are picked up, including can be protected by large quantities prevented with a drench of metal- petals and blooms lodged in of mulch in an area shelteredARCHIVE from axyl applied once every 6 months. branches, and destroyed by burning the wind. In colder regions, plants Root rot caused by Cylindrocla- or by sending them to a garbage require the protection of a sun dium crotalariae often results from landfill. Drenches of pentachloro- porch or a cool greenhouse. adding sand or silt contaminated nitrobenzene (PCNB—75 percent with the fungus. A clean soil mix wettable powder) applied around will solve the problem. The fungus the plant and to the mulch of rarely attacks mature and camellias inhibit the development established plants.

8 Alabama Cooperative Extension System The Culture of Camellias 9 Camellia Dieback Leaf Gall Environmental (Physiological) The fungus This disease is caused by the Problems causes camellia dieback. Symptoms fungus Exobasidium camelliae and Camellia Scab are the sudden wilting of a twig of is most common on C. sasanqua. Not a fungus disease, scab refers new growth or the development of Infected leaves thicken and enlarge to several types of damage to cankers on a limb or trunk. Control with the first flush of growth in the plant leaves—black spot, white by cutting off infected, wilted areas spring. Usually, only a few leaves spot, angular spot, concentric down to clean, uninvaded wood. and twigs are infected on each spot, corky excrescence, scurf, and Infected wood is brown with an plant. Control by removing the sasanqua spot. Scab is the result cast. Sterilize the pruners thickened leaves when they first of improper water relations in the with isopropyl alcohol between appear and destroying them before plant and too much hot sun. The cuts. Dieback is spread when the fungus sporulates and infects unsightly condition of the foliage contaminated water splashes on the plants for next year’s growth. is of more concern to the grower new growth or a plant wound, such as a fresh leaf scar. C. sasanqua is more susceptible to dieback than is C. japonica. It is more Table 2. Established Varieties That Do Well in Central Alabama prevalent in humid areas. Spray Early to Midseason Bloomers ­thiophanate-methyl at labeled rates every 2 or 3 weeks beginning in White: Alba Plena, Charlie Bettes, Conrad Hilton, Dear Jenny, Emmett early spring and continue fungicide Barnes, King Cotton, Nuccio’s Gem, Silver Anniversary, White Empress applications into June. Pink: Berenice Boddy, Dr. Tinsley, Elizabeth Le Bey, High Hat, Kick Off, Viruses Lady Clare, Marie Bracey, Pink Perfection, Simeon Red: Daikagura Red, Laura Walker, Reg Ragland, Terry Gilley, Tomorrow, Vulcan Some viruslike variegation in camellia flowers and leaves is Variegated: Carter’s Sunburst & Sports, La Peppermint, Magic City, genetic, while yellow leaf viruses Margaret Davis, Mona Jury, Ward’s Daikagura transmitted by grafting cause mottle Mid- to Late-Season Bloomers and other flower and leaf variega- tion. The degree of variegation in White: Leucantha, Man Size, Onetia Holland, Sea Foam, Snowman, White- both flowers and leaves varies from By-The-Gate year to year on the same plant. This Pink: C.M. Wilson, Diddy Mealing & Sports, Emily Wilson, Fashionata, is caused by the uneven distribu- Jessie Katz, Magnoliaeflora, Marguerite Sears, Miss America, Moonlight tion of the virus in the plant and Sonata, Omega, Pink Champagne, Rev. John Drayton, Show Time, Spring the varying environmental condi- Sonnet, Tiffany, Tomorrow & Sports tions of each season. Leaves with Red: Aunt Jetty (Governor Mouton), Firebrand, Flame, Kramer’s Supreme, yellow leaf mottle infection are less Mrs. Charles Cobb, Professor Charles E. Sargent cold hardy and tend to sunburn more easily than healthy plant Variegated: Charlotte Bradford, Donckelarii, Gigantea, Herme, Iwane, Lady foliage. Avoid viruses by grafting Kay, Lady Van Sittart, Lindsay Neill, McVey’ Guilio Nuccio, Miss Charleston, to nonvariegated understock of C. Ville de Nantes sasanqua and C. japonica. Also, do not collect scion wood for grafting Table 3. Varieties from C. Reticulata x C. Japonica Crosses from camellias with mottledARCHIVE or variegated leaves. The flower Dr. Clifford Parks: Midseason, red with orange cast, semi-double to striping as seen in camellias Herme, anemone to loose to full peony form Elizabeth, and Lady Van Sittart is Frank Houser: Early to midseason, red, semi-double to peony form genetic and is desirably transmitted Terrell Weaver: Midseason, flame to dark red, semi-double to loose peony by grafting. form, unusual variegation Valentine Day: Midseason, salmon pink, formal double with rosebud center

8 Alabama Cooperative Extension System The Culture of Camellias 9 than the damage is to the camellia. weather in the early fall can cause more conspicuous than the dark To prevent scab, plant camellias buds to drop off in late fall. In the brown, oval-shaped females, which 1 in well-drained soil, in semi-shade spring, late-blooming varieties may are about ⁄20 of an inch long. The locations. Water during dry periods drop their buds before opening female lays her eggs under the in spring, summer, fall, and winter. as the temperatures begin to rise scale covering. The eggs hatch in and initiate shoot growth. Avoid 1 to 2 weeks. The newly hatched Sunburn planting varieties that open too scale, known as a crawler, moves This condition, which is the late or gibbing the flower buds to about the plant and after a week yellowing or bronzing of leaves enjoy them earlier in the season. inserts its mouthparts into succulent exposed to the hot sun, is a New growers may not realize that new-plant tissue. The adult stage is common problem. Causes include all camellia varieties do not perform usually attained in 5 to 11 weeks moving plants from shaded to equally well in all locations. after egg hatch, so there are several more exposed sites, removing over- generations produced each year. Wide fluctuations in moisture can hanging branches, underwatering also cause dropping of flower buds. Camellia scale (Pulvinaria floc- of new transplants, or setting out Camellias do best when moisture cifera) is the other common scale plants with inadequate root systems is sufficient and uniform. Bud drop pest of camellias. Proper culture relative to the aboveground plant. can be caused by soil that is either and the use of insecticidal sprays Fertilizer Burn too wet or too dry. Neglect of any can control scale insects. cultural factor—soil, nutrition, This problem results from overfer- water, drainage, shade—can cause Horticultural oil sprays are envi- tilization or inadequate mulching bud drop. Any type of stress on the ronmentally friendly and nontoxic before fertilizing and from under- plant can result in bud drop. If this to humans and pets. Systemic watering. condition occurs year after year, it insecticides, such as dimethoate or may be a varietal problem, which acephate, can be applied to control Lichens can be resolved by grafting to or eliminate scale insects. Sprays of Lichens are gray-green to green another rootstock or transplanting label-directed concentrations can be mossy growths on the stems of old, the plant to another location. A sprayed on the plants. Since they neglected camellias. The lichen is camellia bud mite may be the are systemic, they kill the sucking- a combination of a fungus and an problem. Early blooming varieties type insects without direct contact. alga that grows symbiotically. They or gibbing for earlier blooms can Due to the insect cycle, a second are not parasitic to the camellia. prevent mite damage. Spraying spray may be required a few weeks Affected plants usually need fertil- plants with a miticide, applied as later. The first application kills the izing, watering, and mulching for soon as flower buds have set, will crawlers, females, and males, while better growing conditions. Spraying usually control flower bud mites. the second spray kills the crawlers with a copper fungicide will kill that have hatched since the first unsightly lichens. Insects spray. Always use insecticides strictly according to the labeled Bud Drop Of Camellias Scale Insects instructions. Scale insects are the most important Bud drop is a fairly common Other Insect Pests problem that causes concern pests of camellias. They have among camellia growers at all levels sucking mouthparts and feed Leaf-eating bugs, spider mites, of expertise. Because camellias by piercing the leaves and twigs aphids, mealy bugs, and white bloom during the winter months, and utilizing the plant juices for flies are all readily controlled with they are susceptible toARCHIVE wide swings food. This stunts and weakens the insecticides, once the pest has of temperature that are part of the camellia and hurts the appearance been identified. None of the insect “normal” winter weather in the of the foliage. Tea scale (Fioriniae pests are life threatening to the Southeast. Freezing temperatures theae) is the most damaging scale plant (except scale insects) unless can cause buds to drop before insect. Yellow splotches appear on they are ignored and left untreated. opening, especially with young the upper side of the leaves, while They can then become severe, but plants and some varieties that are the underside is covered with a this seldom happens. Your county cold sensitive, such as hybrids of cottony mass. The adult males have Extension agent can identify the C. reticulata. Long periods of hot a white, waxy covering and are insect and recommend the appro- priate control measures. 10 Alabama Cooperative Extension System The Culture of Camellias 11 References Camellia Society. R.L. Bryan, Trehane, J. 1998. Camellias, The Complete Guide to Their The Camellia Journal, volumes Columbia, SC. (Under revision by Cultivation and Use. (More than 100 35-36 and 50-54. American Camellia A.C.S.) 476 pg. illustrations for uses of camellias). Society, Fort Valley, GA. Galle, F.C. 1979. and Timber Press, Portland, OR. 176 pg. Chidamian, C. 1959. Camellias Camellias. A.B. Morse, Burlington, for Everyone. Doubleday & Co., IL. 48 pg. N.Y. 191 pg. Gonos, A.A., and S. Bracci. Chuang-xing, Ye. 1997. Clas- 1999. Camellia Nomenclature. sification in the genus Camellia L. Southern California Camellia The American Camellia Yearbook. Society. 184 pg. Pg. 9-23. Griffin, F., Sr. 1964. Camellian, Edgar, L.A. 1991. Camellias, the A Compilation of Authoritative Complete Guide. Crowood Press, Information on Camellia Culture. Vogue Press, Columbia, SC. 245 pg. London. 224 pg. Snowman Ellison, D. 1997. Camellias, Macoboy, S. 1998. The Illus- a Photo Dictionary.(1,000 color trated Encyclopedia of Camellias. photos of camellias). Flora Publi. (More than 1,000 color photos of Intnat’l. Ltd., Brisbane, Australia. camellias.) Timber Press, Portland, 160 pg. OR. 304 pg. Feathers, D.L., and M.H. Brown. Napier, J.M. 1953. Growing camel- 1978. The Camellia, Its History, lias as a hobby. Clemson Agric. Ext. Culture, Genetics, and a Look Into Serv. Circular 377. 32 pg. Its Future Development. American

Winfred Womack

Maureen Connolly ARCHIVELady Kay Red Variegated Kate Mallory

Fashionata Marie Bracey Lady Kay 10 Alabama Cooperative Extension System The Culture of Camellias 11 J. Raymond Kessler, Extension Horticulturist, Professor, Horticulture Originally authored or revised by J. David Williams, Extension Horticulturist, Associate Professor, Hor- ticulture; Urban Diener, Professor Emeritus, Entomology and Plant Pathology, Ron Shumack and Ray- mond I. Self, former Extension Horticulturists; Ken Tilt, Extension Horticulturist, Professor, Horticulture; Pat Cobb, former Extension Entomologist and Professor Emerita; and Austin Hagan, Extension Plant Pathologist, Professor, Entomology and Plant Pathology. Use pesticides only according to the directions on the label. Follow all directions, precautions, and re- strictions that are listed. Do not use pesticides on plants that are not listed on the label. The pesticide rates in this publication are recommended only if they are registered with the Environ- mental Protection Agency and the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries. If a registration is changed or cancelled, the rate listed here is no longer recommended. Before you apply any pesticide, check with your county Extension agent for the latest information. ARCHIVETrade names are used only to give specific information.T he Alabama Cooperative Extension System does not endorse or guarantee any product and does not recommend one product instead of another that might be similar. For more information, call your county Extension office.L ook in your telephone directory under your county’s name to find the number. Published by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn University), an equal opportunity educator and employer.

Revised June 2013, ANR-0202

ANR-0202 © 2013 by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. All rights reserved.