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.

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How to fertilize a Camellia
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
All Camellia guides
Keep reading
Sources3 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineTaxonomy · accepted name · native range · classification
- Royal Horticultural SocietyQuick facts · Choosing camellias · Where to plant · Watering · Feeding · Overwintering · Problems
- University of Florida IFAS ExtensionGeneral Culture: Soils · Exposure · Fertilization · Watering · Pests and Diseases
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