The Four Seasons Camellia

A Complete Guide to Sasanqua Camellia Care
The sasanqua camellia is a beloved evergreen shrub known for its beautiful fall and winter flowers, glossy foliage, and versatile growth habit. Unlike its spring-blooming cousin (Camellia japonica), the sasanqua is generally sun-hardier and more adaptable. With proper care, it will reward you with a stunning display of color during the cooler months.

1. Light Requirements
Sasanqua camellias thrive in dappled sunlight or partial shade. They perform best with about 4-6 hours of morning sun, which is gentler and helps dry dew from the leaves, preventing fungal diseases. They can tolerate more sun than other camellias, especially in cooler climates, but should be protected from the intense, hot afternoon sun which can scorch the leaves and bleach the flowers.

Ideal: Morning sun with afternoon shade.

2. Soil & Planting
The single most important factor for camellias is soil quality. They demand well-draining, acidic soil (pH between 5.0 and 6.5).

Drainage is critical: They will not tolerate "wet feet" or waterlogged soil, which leads to root rot.

Acidity is key: If your soil is neutral or alkaline, amend it generously with peat moss, composted pine bark, or leaf mold. Using an ericaceous (acid-loving) compost is ideal.

Planting: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. The top of the root ball should be slightly above the surrounding soil level to ensure water drains away from the base of the stem.

3. Watering
Establish a consistent watering routine, especially for the first two years while the plant is establishing its root system.

Frequency: Water deeply 1-2 times per week, depending on your climate and weather. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.

Check the soil: Before watering, check the top few inches of soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water.

Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch (like pine straw or bark chips) around the base of the plant. This helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil cool. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the main stem to prevent rot.

4. Fertilizing
Feed your sasanqua camellia to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Type: Use a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants (e.g., for azaleas, camellias, and rhododendrons).

Schedule: Fertilize three times a year:

Early Spring (after flowering finishes)

Late Spring

Mid-Summer

Important: Do not fertilize after late summer. Fertilizing too late can encourage tender new growth that will be damaged by early frosts.

5. Pruning
Sasanquas require minimal pruning. The best time to prune is immediately after they finish flowering (often in late winter or early spring). Pruning at this time avoids cutting off next season's flower buds, which form on new summer growth.

Purpose: Prune to maintain shape, control size, and remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches.

Method: Make clean cuts and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation within the canopy.

6. Common Problems & Solutions
Yellowing Leaves (Chlorosis): Often caused by alkaline soil, which prevents the plant from absorbing iron. Treat with a chelated iron supplement and amend the soil to increase acidity.

Bud Drop: Can be caused by sudden temperature changes, overwatering, or underwatering. Maintain consistent moisture, especially when buds are forming.

Pests: Watch for aphids, scale, and spider mites. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.

Diseases: The most common issues are:

Leaf Gall: Thickened, fleshy leaves. Remove and destroy affected leaves.

Flower Blight: Brown spots on petals. Remove and destroy any infected flowers immediately.

Root Rot: Caused by poor drainage. Ensure the soil is well-draining.

Key Takeaways for Success:
Acidic, well-draining soil is non-negotiable.

Morning sun and afternoon shade is the perfect light balance.

Keep the soil consistently moist, never waterlogged.

Fertilize with an acid-loving plant food in spring and summer.

Prune right after flowering to avoid losing next year's blooms.

With this care, your sasanqua camellia will become a resilient and spectacular highlight in your garden for years to come.