When the *Camellia japonica* finally opens those lush, gorgeous blooms, it’s honestly a showstopper. But if you want that “wow” factor, you’ve got to get the location and lighting just right. These beauties can be a little picky, so it’s best to have a game plan before you even dig the first hole. In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to keep your camellias happy and thriving.
Pots or In-Ground?
One of the first questions I get is whether to plant camellias in a container or directly in the garden. Honestly, you can do both! However, because *Camellia japonica* has some specific needs, growing them in pots is often a lot easier. If the temperature takes a dive in the winter, you can just scoot the pot indoors. Plus, if the sun is hitting a bit too hard on the patio, you can easily move it into the shade.
Planting Guide
Ready to add some elegance to your yard with a *Camellia japonica*? It’s easier than you think if you follow a few simple rules. Here’s the lowdown:
The Best Time to Plant
Timing is everything! Aim to get your camellia in the ground (or pot) in the spring. This gives the plant plenty of time to settle in and get established before it starts blooming in December.
Choosing the Perfect Spot
Camellias love light, but they aren’t big fans of direct, scorching sun. To keep them happy, you’re looking for a spot that is:
- Bright
- Sunny (indirectly)
- Cool
- Protected from harsh afternoon rays
Unheated greenhouses, cool entryways, or a sheltered corner of your patio are usually the “sweet spots.” Ideally, your camellia wants about 16 hours of light a day—just without the sunburn!
The Right Soil Mix
*Camellia japonica* needs acidic soil (a low pH) to really thrive. They also have zero tolerance for “wet feet,” so drainage is key. Before planting, make sure your soil drains well. You can buy specialized “acid-loving” potting mix at the garden center, or you can whip up your own DIY blend by mixing:
- Peat moss
- Sand
- Loam
- Compost
- Pine needle mulch (pine mold)
Pro Tip: You don’t need to buy pine needle mulch! Just look under any pine, fir, or spruce trees in your yard. The fallen needles naturally acidify the soil underneath, making it perfect for your camellias.
How to Plant
Since camellias are shallow-rooted, you don’t want to bury them too deep. In fact, it’s best if the very top of the root ball sits just an inch or two above the soil line.
If you notice the roots are looking a bit tangled or “root-bound” when you take it out of the nursery pot, feel free to gently loosen them up a bit before planting.
