Camellia sasanqua 'Setsugekka'

Planting Your 'Setsugekka' Camellia:

1. Select the Right Site: Choose a semi-shaded spot with protection from the hot afternoon sun and strong winds. Camellias prefer acidic, well-draining soil.
2. Prepare the Soil: Dig a hole approximately 50 cm deep and 1 meter wide. Mix in plenty of organic matter such as well-rotted manure or compost.
3. Planting: Position the camellia in the hole so that the top of the root ball is slightly above ground level to allow for settling and to improve drainage.
4. Backfill: Gently backfill the hole with the same soil mixture, being careful not to compact the soil too much.
5. Water Thoroughly: Water the plant well after planting, ensuring the root zone is evenly moist.
6. Mulching: Apply a 7-10 cm layer of organic mulch, such as bark or leaf mold, around the plant to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Hedging & Screening: Plant 1 m apart for a formal hedge, or 1.2 m apart for a softer look.

Feature Tree: Space 1.5 m – 2 m apart to display its elegant, upright habit.

Avenue Planting Trees: Not typically used.

Caring For Your 'Setsugekka' Camellia:

1. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water more frequently during extended periods of dry weather.
2. Pruning: Lightly prune after blooming to maintain shape and encourage bushiness. Avoid heavy pruning as camellias are slow to recover.
3. Fertilizing: Feed with an acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer, following the package directions for application rates.
4. Monitoring: Check periodically for pests like aphids or scale. Treat with appropriate horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps if necessary.
5. Protection: Protect from early morning sun following a frost, as the rapid thawing can damage the plant.

For Camellia sasanqua 'Setsugekka', consistent care, particularly regarding soil conditions and watering, will help ensure a robust and floriferous display of the elegant, ruffled white flowers that this variety is known for.

Optimizing Soil for Year-Round Beauty

Ideal Drainage: Does best in well-drained, slightly acidic soils.

Well-Draining Soil: Ideal for these varieties, enhancing foliage and bloom quality.

If you have the following soil, here are some tips for you:

• Sandy Soil: Naturally draining; amend with organic materials and acidic mulch to maintain the required acidity and nutrient levels.
• Clay Soil: Improve with sand and organic matter to facilitate better drainage and appropriate acidity.
• Loamy Soil: Maintain its health with acidic organic amendments to support continuous blooming.
• Peaty Soil: Ensure good drainage while maintaining the soil's natural acidity for best performance.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How quickly will my 'Setsugekka' camellia grow?
A: Expect a moderate growth rate; Camellia sasanqua 'Setsugekka' typically grows about 30 cm per year until mature.

Q: When is the best time of year to plant my 'Setsugekka' camellia?
A: The ideal time to plant is in the cooler months of early autumn or early spring, avoiding periods of frost.

Q: How much water does my 'Setsugekka' camellia need?
A: Newly planted camellias need regular watering to establish—about 10-20 liters per week. Once established, they prefer moist but well-drained soil, with more frequent watering during dry spells.

Q: Can I plant this camellia close to my house?
A: Yes, 'Setsugekka' can be planted about 2-3 meters from a building, as it has a non-invasive root system.

Q: How long will it take for my 'Setsugekka' camellia to bloom?
A: They often bloom within the first year of planting, but full flowering potential is reached after 2-3 years.