Camellias are classic shrubs known for their gorgeous blooms and glossy foliage. They naturally thrive in spots with dappled or partial sunlight.
However, some gardeners want to grow these beauties in yards with full sun exposure. While this is a challenging quest, camellias can adapt and flourish in sunnier locations with proper care and technique. Below are our best tips for growing camellias in the sun.
Is There Such Thing as Too Much Sun for Camellias?
Dappled sunlight or shade are part of ideal conditions for growing camellias. In home gardens, planting them in spots with partial sun or up to half a day of direct sun is recommended.
I’ve found that excessive sunlight can cause yellowed, scorched leaves and poor health for camellias and that winter sun warms camellias too quickly, damaging them during cold snaps.
Some varieties grown in the right microclimates and conditions, however, can flourish in full sun with proper care.
Choosing sun-tolerant varieties and sufficient water are key.
Tips for Growing Camellias in Full Sun
If you want to try growing camellias in a sunny yard, here are some tips:
- Select Sasanqua Varieties: Fall-blooming sasanquas tend to be more sun tolerant than spring-blooming japonicas. Sasanquas have smaller leaves and flowers adapted to sunlight. Popular sun-loving varieties include “Yuletide” and “Autumn Spirit.”
- Choose Red Varieties: Reds generally tolerate full sun better than whites or pinks. Red pigment offers some protection against sun damage. Good red varieties include “Christmas Cheer” and “Sparkling Burgundy.”
- Water Consistently: Camellias need regular moisture in full sun. Water thoroughly at planting and one to two inches weekly in summer. Mulch to retain moisture.
- Provide Wind Protection: Use plantings, fences, walls, or trellises to shield camellias from drying winds.
- Fertilize Lightly: Avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage roots. Use acidic fertilizer made for camellias in early spring and midsummer.
- Monitor for Sun Damage: Check for yellowing or browning leaves, which signal too much light. Be prepared to move shrubs to partial shade if needed.
Where to Plant Camellias
Selecting the right planting location is crucial for growing healthy camellias, especially in sunny conditions. When choosing a spot, evaluate these important factors:
Some airflow is healthy, but shield from harsh winds which damage foliage.
Ensure sufficient water, especially in the sun. Plan irrigation if rainfall is scarce.
Camellias need moist, well-draining, acidic soil rich in organic matter. Amend poor soils before planting.
Morning sun is best with afternoon shade. East- or west-facing spots work well. Avoid unrelenting midday sun.
Camellias survive cold winters but dislike hot summers. Provide shade on warm sites.
How to Plant Camellias
Follow the tips below when planting camellias. Proper planting technique ensures the best start for establishing new plants.
Camellias have dense, shallow roots. Make holes two to three times wider than root balls but only as deep.
Before planting, amend backfill soil with compost, peat moss, and acidic fertilizer.
Place root ball on firmly packed soil with top at ground level. Partially backfill, water to settle, then finish.
Stake tall or top-heavy plants until deeper roots are established. Avoid damaging roots.
Spread two to four inches of organic mulch over root zones to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch from touching trunks.
Water at planting and two to three times per week thereafter, providing one to two inches weekly depending on rainfall.
When to Plant Camellias
Camellias can be planted in fall, winter, or early spring:
October to November is ideal in warmer zones 8 to 10. Allow six to eight weeks before a freeze to allow some root growth.
In planting zone 7 or warmer, plant in January or February., but avoid planting in frozen ground. Plant containerized camellias later into winter.
After the last frost and before summer arrives is best. Container plants allow for flexible spring planting.
Avoid summer planting as heat stresses new plants. Provide ample irrigation and shade for the first year.
So, Is Growing Camellias in Full Sun Possible?
While partial shade is ideal, sasanquas and some other camellia varieties can adapt to full sun with proper care, including consistent watering, wind protection, and monitoring for damage. Morning sun is safer than afternoon sun.
Light afternoon shade is best for camellias in sunny spots. With wise variety selection and care, camellias can grow successfully in sunnier yards.
FAQs About Growing Camellias in Sun
What are signs my camellia is getting too much sun?
Yellowing or browning leaves, leaf scorching, and poor flowering indicate excessive sunlight. You should move plants to a shadier area if possible
Should camellias be pruned to control size?
Pruning does help to control size. To control the size of my camellias, I prune lightly after flowering to shape and thin out old branches. Avoid heavy pruning, which can reduce blooms.
How fast do camellias grow?
The growth rate depends on variety, but one to two feet per year is typical. Some varieties grow just six inches yearly.
Should I water camellias daily?
For deeper rooting, you should water thoroughly two to three times per week rather than watering lightly on a daily basis.
When should I fertilize camellias?
Use acidic fertilizer made for camellias once in early spring and again around July, and avoid late summer feeding.
