Most people keep camellias outdoors. But the Asian beauty is also a real eye-catcher as a container plant. But only if it is held correctly.
The camellia (Camellia japonica) is considered difficult to keep among hobby gardeners. On the one hand it is because it has very specific requirements when it comes to care, and on the other hand it is because it is not hardy. Anyone who gets this plant in the garden has a lot to do. Especially if you keep the Asian beauty as a container plant.This is how camellias thrive in a pot
❖ Tip 1 - choose the right pot size
As with most potted flowers, you need to match the pot size to the plant. So, planting a small camellia plant with few roots in an oversized pot is wrong. This not only looks ugly, it is also harmful to the camellia's roots, because the root ball would then be surrounded by too much soil. Possible substrate also becomes too wet and acidic. The plant then absorbs the acidic substrate before it can form a dense and new root system.
It can also cause the fine root fibers to die off due to the persistent moisture. So-called wet damage occurs. So always choose the right pot for the size of the plant.
❖ Tip 2 - Don't put the pot on the floor
Ideally, the plant pot should not stand directly on the ground, because excess water cannot drain off properly. Appropriate stands are therefore available in stores.
So that the water can run off better, we advise you to scatter potsherds or Lecaton in the lower area of the pot. This provides ideal drainage.
❖ Tip 3 - use the right plant substrate
Camellias love loose, slightly acidic and well-drained soil. A mixture of 1/3 compost, 1/3 garden soil and 1/3 peat would be ideal. In addition, always add some lava dust or sharp sand. This improves root penetration. But you can also use bog soil or rhododendron soil.
❖ Tip 4 - repot camellias properly
Camellias are only repotted when the roots are on thesurface becomes visible. Sometimes this can take up to three years. Then use a container that is only about 5 cm larger.
» Recommended reading: Repotting camellias - a miracle of flowers in winter.
❖ Tip 5 - Caring for camellias properly:
Camellias that are kept in pots require more care than camellias that are planted out. The main factors here are the water supply and fertilizer. For example, plants kept in a tall pot with lots of soil need less water than ones in a shallow container. Even in winter, the plants must be watered regularly. But only when the days are frost-free.
» Reading tip: Caring for camellias - 7 important tips.
❖ Tip 6 - Leave potted plants outdoors for as long as possible
Camellias love the fresh air. They should therefore remain outdoors for as long as possible. If the outside temperatures reach freezing point, however, you have to take them to their winter quarters - at a maximum of 10 to 15 degrees Celsius.
In a pinch, you can also leave them in a wind-protected spot on the terrace. But then it is important that you protect the plant from frost with bubble wrap or coconut mats.