Camellia flowers dazzle and delight with their many forms and colors, especially in winter. Like all plants, camellias need the right amount of water to grow at their best. In this article, we’ll find out when and how to water camellias for optimal growth and maximum blooms each season.
The Importance of Watering Correctly
Like all organisms, plants depend on water to survive. Water is crucial for photosynthesis and also forms up to 95% of a plant’s total mass. If plants don’t get enough water, they will struggle to grow properly.
During photosynthesis, plants absorb water through their roots and carbon dioxide and sunlight through their leaves. This combination enables the plant to produce glucose, a necessary sugar. The glucose is then turned into cellulose, which is the primary building block of all plant tissue.
Plants absorb water from the soil through their roots. While the roots are sucking up water, the plant can also access and absorb nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These vital nutrients are used to produce bushy foliage, develop flowers, and circulate other nutrients around the plant.
When to Water Camellias
Camellia shrubs prefer moist, acidic soils that don’t become waterlogged. The soil needs to be fertile and well-draining but still able to retain some moisture. When the top 4 inches of soil feel dry, water camellias to keep them moist.
Camellias should be watered differently depending on their stage of growth. Camellias are slow-growing plants that can live for decades in the right conditions. Established camellia shrubs shouldn’t need extra watering except during hot summers.
However, newly planted camellias and young plants need watering regularly until they establish a sound root system. Water newly planted camellias whenever the top 2 to 4 inches of soil feel dry. Do this for 18 months or so until the shrub becomes established.
Camellias grow well in pots, but they dry out quicker than camellias growing in the ground. Water potted camellias whenever the top 2 to 4 inches of soil feel dry, especially during hot summers.
Seasonal Changes to Consider
During the summer, camellias work hard to develop new flower buds for the next season. As such, camellias need watering more frequently during the summer to fuel these buds. Water whenever the top 2 inches of soil feel dry.
Camellias like to stay moist and hate drying out. During hot, dry summers, watering camellias regularly is essential. If a camellia dries out too much, it may not produce flowers the following year. Developing flower buds need lots of water and nutrients to open properly.
Before the first frost of winter comes, water your camellia thoroughly. A thick layer of mulch helps lock in moisture and provide some extra insulation. Camellias can tolerate drier conditions during the winter but water occasionally in prolonged dry weather.
How to Water Camellias
Here’s a quick guide detailing how to water camellias:
- Check the soil around your camellia with your fingers or with a trowel. If the top 2 to 4 inches feel dry, it’s time to water.
- Water thoroughly around the base of your camellia.
- Cover the soil with a layer of mulch to preserve moisture and provide some insulation in winter.
Signs of Overwatering
Camellias like moist soil but not soggy conditions. Common signs of overwatering include:
- Drooping, wilting, curling, or yellowing leaves
- Brown, mushy, or smelly roots
- Soil takes a long time to dry out
Signs of Underwatering
Common signs that your camellia is underwatered include:
- Cracked, dry soil
- Limp, yellowing foliage
- Flower buds not opening or dropping off
Watering Camellias FAQs:
What Does an Overwatered Camellia Look Like?
Camellias suffering from overwatering have drooping or wilting leaves that are turning yellow. Camellias in waterlogged soil may also suffer from root rot. Symptoms include brown, mushy, or smelly roots.
Can I Water My Camellia With Tap Water?
When watering your camellia, use rainwater whenever possible. Tap water is fine occasionally but contains chemicals like fluoride that could damage your camellia.
Should You Water Camellias in Winter?
Camellias need watering less frequently during the winter. Before the first frost, water your camellia thoroughly. If the weather is dry for long periods, water your camellia if the top 4 inches of soil feel dry.
How to Water Camellias: Wrapping Up
As a general rule, water camellias whenever the top 2 to 4 inches of soil feel dry. Camellias need moist soil, so water frequently during hot, dry summers. Water newly planted camellias regularly for the first 18 months until the plant becomes established.
For more, see our in-depth guide on the meaning and symbolism of camellias and discover our favorite types of red, white, and pink camellia flowers.
Edd is a budding content writer and gardener living in the United Kingdom. He has a bachelor's degree in Creative and Professional Writing and has written for several gardening publications online. He is passionate about nature and sustainability with a focus on gardening and wildlife.
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