April Dawn Blush Camellia

1. Planting: Plant in well-drained soil where the shrub will receive either morning sun with afternoon shade or filtered sun all day long.

Dig your hole about 2 inches shorter than the depth of the root ball and 2 feet wider than the width. Place your Camellia, backfill your hole until the root system is completely covered, and mound the soil over the top. Water thoroughly to settle the roots. Adding mulch around your Camellia will help the soil retain moisture, regulate temperature, and prevent weeds from growing.

The April Dawn Blush can also be container-planted. Select a pot that’s twice the size of your plant’s shipped container and ensure it has drainage holes. Use an organic soil mix, place your plant, and water until you see it flowing from the drainage holes.

2. Watering: Once established, Camellias prefer less watering than you might expect. Only water when the top 3 inches of soil is dry.

3. Fertilizing: Fertilize your Camellia in the spring, using a soluble fertilizer for acid-loving plants once or twice a month in spring and mid-summer.

4. Pruning: After your blooming season has ended, remove any dead or weak wood and shorten lower limbs to encourage more upright growth.