CAMELLIAS: There are two types of camellias commonly used in eastern North Carolina. The Japanese camellia is a large plant that gets 15 to 20 feet tall and 6 to 10 feet wide. Japanese camellias have large leaves and flowers that are 4 to 8 inches in diameter. Blooms may open from early winter to spring.

Sasanqua camellias have smaller leaves on a plant that is normally 6 to 10 feet high and about 3 to 5 feet wide (there are some dwarf types). Flowers are only 2 to 3 inches in diameter and open in the fall or early winter.

Both types come with flower colors of pink, red, and white and form a broad, densely branched evergreen pyramid.

Camellias like acidic (pH 5 to 6.5), well-drained soils. It is best to plant them on the north side of a house or in semi-shade. Container plants can be planted at any time of the year. Spacing of camellias is important as it is with all plants. Based on their size, research has shown that sasanqua camellias should be planted at least 4 feet from a wall to allow access for maintenance and good air circulation.

If camellias are to be used in a hedge, plant them 5 to 6 feet on center. To keep sasanqua camellias individual, plant at least 8 feet on center. Plant Japanese camellias 6 to 8 feet from a wall, 8 feet on center for a hedge, and at least 12 feet on center to keep plants individual.

Groom: Tidy camellia blooms. Spent camellia blooms, particularly with C. japonicas, are susceptible to petal blight. Remove fallen blooms — and those ready to fall — to prevent the spread of disease and insect problems.

Pruning camellias should be done following flowering; prune each type of camellia accordingly.

Fertilize: Apply about one pound of fertilizer per 1000 square feet in March, May, and July. Don’t fertilize after August since it may promote new growth that could be damaged by cold temperatures later.

Mulch: Most of my yearly mulching is complete. I’m still adding hardwood chips to paths as they degrade and get smashed into the ground. I love the look of a freshly laid path.

Pest Control: If you suspect your faded flowers have blight, don’t put them in the compost pile. Instead, place them in a plastic bag and dispose of it in the trash.