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My camellia has never bloomed and is 7 yrs old. What am I doing wrong?

Katie Gohmann
Professional Gardener
Katherine Gohmann is a Professional Gardener in Texas. She has been a home gardener and professional gardener since 2008.

Katie Gohmann

Professional Gardener

Expert Answer

If your plant isn't blooming, it isn't happy. Check everything: make sure the soil is acidic enough (pH of 5.5-6.5), make sure you have adequate drainage (camellias hate to stand in water), make sure your camellia is in partial shade (too much sun can prevent flowering), check to see if there are any pests that need to be removed, give it some fresh compost, mulch, and acidic fertilizer every spring, and see if that helps.

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Why are the flowers dropping off my camellias?

Katie Gohmann
Professional Gardener
Katherine Gohmann is a Professional Gardener in Texas. She has been a home gardener and professional gardener since 2008.

Katie Gohmann

Professional Gardener

Expert Answer

Do you mean the buds, or the flowers? The flowers will drop after they have opened and run their course. It's normal. It's also normal to lose a few buds, but if you have a ton of buds dropping and no flowers opening up, it could be over- or under-watering or sudden cold temperatures. Take a look at http://www.monrovia.com/how-to-grow-camellias/ for some more information.

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Question

What can be done for a healthy plant that is not flowering?

Community Answer

It may not be getting the proper nutrients. This could be in the form of minerals, or sunlight, either too little or too much. Get a soil test kit and make sure the soil surrounding the plant is appropriate for it. Fertilizer regularly with a balanced fertilizer.

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I have had my camellia in a pot, and it has become pot bound. Can I take trim some of the root ball to replant in another pot?

Community Answer

Yes, but the best time to do this would be spring. If you do repot and trim the root ball, make sure to prune the top of the plant back say 25-30 percent, too; otherwise, the roots would not be sufficient to support the plant.

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Question

Can I re-pot my camellia?

Community Answer

Just like with any plant, it could be a little risky. Their roots can bend and break. But, yes, it's possible.

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When can I transplant a camellia that's four years old?

Community Answer

It is best to do it in the winter time, or at least to dig it then. Unless it is in a container, there will be some root damage, so you should prune the top to keep the root system in balance for less stress on the plant.

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Question

Why do the buds keep falling off?

Community Answer

Dramatic weather changes can cause buds to fall off before they can even open. If the bud drops continue, try moving your camellia plant to a more appropriate place.

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Why aren't my camellias blooming?

Community Answer

There are many factors that can affect blooming, including weather, pests, inadequate sunlight, water levels and space to grow.

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My camellia's leaves are falling out! What can I do?

Community Answer

Make sure you're using acidic soil, not alkaline. I've had success with using sulphur to revive mine. You put it around the plants in small quantities over a period of three months.

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How do I care for my camellia over the winter?

Community Answer

You can keep them inside, so they don't freeze. Water them every week or so, and keep them by the window.

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Why are my white flowers turning brown when they bloom?

Community Answer

Most likely frost damage. If there's any risk of frost, cover plant entirely with lightweight breathable gauze or fabric.

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Question

My camellia has loads of huge buds, but does not bloom. What should I do?

Community Answer

Try different fertilizers, or even try natural alternatives. Miracle-Gro may help, or even manure. Manure may seem like a huge step, but it can work wonders.

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Question

Do camellias like chicken manure?

Community Answer

No, not really. Chicken manure will decrease acidity of soil and camellias like slightly acidic soil.

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