Camellia Japonica

Nothing signals the start of spring in the south like the blooms of the camellia japonica. A member of the tea family and native of Japan and China, camellias were introduced into the United States in the 18th century in Charleston, SC when formal gardens became more refined, and plants and shrubs could be imported from around the world. Camellia japonicas bloom in late winter, early spring and can be distinguished from Camilla sasanqua by their larger bloom size.
Even when not blooming, camellias are an excellent long living shrub for the home garden, providing a focal point in any bed with their shiny dark green leaves. Blooms can last for up to six weeks and provide delicate color in the landscape. Colors can include shades of pink, rose, and white, some with a light fragrance and are available at local nursery and garden centers nearly year around.
Camellias are hardy in zones seven to 10 and require a well-drained acidic soil with a ph of 5.0 to 6.0. Camellias will not tolerate alkaline soil. Plant in partial shade, filtered light under pine trees provide near perfect growing conditions. Be sure to mulch well with a layer of pine needles to a depth of 2-3 inches. 
Potted plants can be planted in the garden anytime, but do better when planted during the dormant season. To plant camellias; dig a hole to the depth of the root ball or pot and twice as wide. Fill with your favorite soil mixture, adding a time-released fertilizer following manufacturers directions. Established plants can be fertilized in winter with a complete fertilizer such as 2-5-15 or a similar product at the rate of ½ lb per plant. Newly planted camellias need frequent watering, especially during periods of drought, but well-established plants are quite drought tolerant.
Few diseases effect camellias, but scale insects can attack camellia plants, leaving white scales under the leave. To rid your plant of scales, coat the under leaves with dormant oil or spray with a climethate spray, following manufacturers direction. 
Plants can be pruned up to within 6 weeks of the last bloom, but dead wood can be pruned at any time. Be sure to cease any pruning 6-8 weeks before expected bloom season to avoid pruning off flower buds.
For more information on camellia varieties that grow well here visit www.lsuagcenter.com or visit the Hammond Research Station on Sunday, February 21st and view one of the largest collections of camellias in the area. This event is free and open to the public, and is sponsored by the Tangipahoa Master Gardener Association and the Hammond Research Station.