CAMELLIA JAPONICA

Light:
☀️ Partial shade to full shade. Camellia japonica prefers dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade. Avoid placing it in direct afternoon sun, as this can cause leaf scorch. A location with filtered light or protection from harsh sun is ideal.

Water:
💧 Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Camellia japonica needs regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply to encourage root growth, but make sure the soil drains well to avoid root rot. Reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant.

Soil:
🌱 Acidic, well-draining soil. Camellia japonica prefers slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5) rich in organic matter. The soil should drain well but retain enough moisture to keep the roots moist. Adding peat moss or compost can help improve the soil structure.

Temperature:
🌡️ Prefers cooler temperatures between 50°F and 70°F (10°C - 21°C). Camellia japonica is hardy in USDA zones 7-9. It can tolerate light frost, but harsh winters may damage the plant. In colder climates, protect the plant during the winter months to prevent frost damage.

Humidity:
💦 Moderate to high humidity. Camellia japonica enjoys moderate humidity and does best in environments with some moisture in the air. If growing indoors, you may want to mist occasionally or place the plant on a humidity tray to maintain the moisture level.

Fertilizer:
🌼 Fertilize in early spring, just before new growth begins, with a slow-release fertilizer for acid-loving plants or camellias. Avoid fertilizing in the winter when the plant is dormant. Over-fertilizing can damage the plant, so follow the recommended amounts carefully.

Pruning:
✂️ Prune after the flowering season to shape the plant and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Since Camellia japonica blooms on older wood, avoid heavy pruning before the plant flowers, as this can impact bloom production.

Flowers:
🌸 Camellia japonica produces large, stunning flowers in a variety of colors, including pink, red, and white. The blooms appear in winter or early spring, often providing a burst of color in a time when many other plants are dormant.