Debutante Camellia

Debutante is an early to mid-season Camellia japonica with medium-large, pink peony-form flowers that grows best in well-drained, loamy soil in full shade to partial shade in a location that is protected from hot sun and drying winds.

When preparing the site for your new Camellia, dig the hole the same size as the root ball. Plant the root ball at or slightly above the soil level. If the soil settles and the crown of the root ball sinks below the soil level, excess water can accumulate at the roots which can lead to root rot resulting in plant mortality.

After planting, water deeply then apply a thick layer of mulch to keep roots cool, make certain the mulch is not touching the base of the plant. Water regularly during the first few years to help establish a strong root system. Reduce frequency once established. Moist soil that drains well is essential, standing wet soil is detrimental.

It can take years for Camellia japonica varieties to develop a root system capable of sustaining them without much irrigation. Generally, they need regular irrigation for at least the first three years. Afterwards, when their growth is more vigorous and their branches are shading their own roots then irrigation frequency can be reduced. Older camellias need less care and less water than most gardeners think.

Camellias don’t require a lot of pruning. Generally prune to remove weak, crossed, damaged, or dead wood. Or prune lightly to maintain desired shape and size right after its flowering period.

Q: Why are my Camellia flower buds dropping before they bloom?
A: Commonly called Bud Drop, a Camellia shrub may set more buds than it can support and will naturally “thin” itself, but more often, it is related to watering, either too little or too much. Excessive water can also be related to poor soil drainage.

Q: Why are my Camellia flowers turning brown before they are finished flowering?
A: In California, this can be due to excessive winds or prolonged wet conditions during seasonal rainfall but another cause could be Petal Blight. Tidy up the area and plants by pruning the infected blooms and remove any fallen flowers and petals.

Q: Why are the leaves on my Camellia turning yellow?
A: There are several factors that can turn your Camellia leaves yellow. First, sun intensity can bleach the leaves, providing shade may improve the situation. Check soil moisture. Soggy roots in standing water will lead to foliage discoloration. Or soil pH may be too alkaline.

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