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How to fertilize a Camellia

Camellia japonica

Quick answer

For a container-grown Camellia japonica, use ericaceous fertilizer in early spring, follow the package label, and stop feeding by the end of July.

Camellia
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How to fertilize a Camellia

  1. 01

    When to fertilize

    For a container-grown camellia, feed in early spring. Camellia japonica belongs to the group that flowers in late winter and early spring.

    Do not feed camellias later than the end of July. Too much feeding, or feeding in late summer, can cause bud drop.

  2. 02

    Fertilizer type and dose

    Use an ericaceous fertilizer for a container Camellia japonica, such as a soluble azalea, camellia or rhododendron food.

    Follow the dilution rate and application frequency printed on the chosen product label. There is no single dose for every camellia.

  3. 03

    When not to fertilize

    Bud drop after too much or late-summer feeding is the main warning sign. Check watering, soil acidity and timing before treating a camellia as nutrient deficient.

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