Many camellias are in flower now so it’s the perfect time to visit your local garden centre to see them in bloom. If you buy one in flower, you know exactly what you’re getting. Flowers may be single, semi-double or fully double, in various colours including bi-colours. Camellias are not too long-lasting in the vase but if you snip them when in bud you’ll get the most from them. Their glossy leaves are great for bulking out bouquets too. Or pick individual flowers and float them in glass bowls.
Sansanqua camellias are the earliest flowering, from autumn to winter, and will tolerate sun and drought. Plant in a moist, well-drained acidic soil that has lots of compost dug in. Dig in some blood and bone at planting time too.
Alternatively, grow your camellia indoors.
These lovely images came from, top to bottom, Rosy Little Things; Decor8; and Myu-Myu’s photostream on flickr.
I love camellias, they are one of the few good things about winter! The middle pic is a pretty way of displaying them. Hopefully the buds would continue to open!
Hi Ruth
If the camellia is planted properly in free-draining mix, the buds should open fine. Jane.