56 



CAMELLIA. 



SOIL, WATERING AND TEMPERATURE. 



Camellias thrive in a soil of equal parts of sandy 

 loam and leaf-mold or peat, though a rich light 

 loam will answer. Any incorporation of manure, 

 unless a very little and well-rotted, is positively in- 

 jurious, nor will they bear any fertilizer whatever. 



When growing freely they can hardly have too 

 much water, which should also be frequently ap- 

 plied to the foliage with a fine sprinkler. After the 

 season's growth is completed, partly withhold water 

 from the soil. Provide the pots with good drain- 

 age, as the roots are liable to injury by standing 

 water. 



Camellias are natives of damp and shady places 

 and a humid climate. The temperature for them 

 ought not to exceed 45 ° by night and 65 by day. 

 A winter temperature of 50 is most suitable, yet 

 in summer they will endure a great degree of moist 

 heat if in a shady location. The season for their 

 highest temperature is in the spring after flowering 

 and while making their growth. 



PROPAGATION AND GENERAL CARE. 



Camellias are increased from cuttings, which 

 should be taken from the base of a leaf, or at a 

 joint, as soon as the wood is ripened, and rooted in 

 damp sand under glass. When they show signs of 

 growth transplant to small pots. They are also 

 very extensively propagated by inarching and graft- 

 ing by florists. As either of these methods are not 



