CAMELLIA JAPONICA 
Commonly known as “Japonica’’ in the South; 
becoming recently a most popular plant, not only in 
the Gulf Coast region, but all over the country. Its 
glossy green foliage all the year around, together 
with most attractive and beautiful flowers in win- 
ter, when no other flowers are found in the garden, 
has been increasing the admirers of the plant. Mil- 
lions of them are set out every year in open grounds 
or in conservatories and green houses as pot plants. 
It will regain without any doubt a popularity strong- 
er than it possessed half a century ago even as cut 
fiowers. 
Brief Cultural Hints 
Soil—Cameliia grows in almost any soil, but well 
drained, good garden soil a little acid in reaction 
is more suitable. 
Location—Half shady location is preferable, es- 
pecially when the plants are young. Free bloom- 
ing cannot be expected in a place entirely shaded. 
Transplanting—The root system of the Camellia is 
rather coarse and not quite so easily transplanted 
as the Azalea. 
Fertilization—The Camellia is a gross feeder; it 
responds well to fertilization. At the time of 
planting, if the soil is not fertile enough, use a 
mixture of one-half of garden soil, one-fourth of 
well rotted cow manure and one-fourth of peat 
or leaf mould. Every winter or early spring 
apply well rotted cow manure; bone meal or 
cotton seed meal, or similar commercial ferti- 
lizer may be added if necessary. Mulching with 
half rotted leaves or peat is also beneficial. 
Watering—The Camellia loves a humid atmosphere. 
Do not neglect the watering. Frequent syringing 
on the leaves helps a great deal during the dry 
summer months. 
Pruning—Proper pruning is also essential. Prune 
with care such as water shoots, dead or injured 
branches and branches growing too close to- 
gether. General pruning should be done in the 
month of February; otherwise it may have a bad 
effect on the flower buds. 
Spraying—Red spider and various scales may at- 
tack Camellias. We have been using ‘Volek Jr.” 
at the ratio of 1 to 40 in the summer and 1 to 
25 in winter, mixing one teaspoonful of Black 
Overlook 14 Nursery 
