Mr Williams in Cornwall created the Williamsii hybrids which have great hardiness. A French Botanist discovered Camellias that grow at one third the range of Williamsii. Old Camellias have been hybridised to create smaller plants for modern smaller gardens. A New Zealand breeder has hybridised Arthur’s Choice which flowers three times in a year. He noted that low PH and colder weather can affect the colour of Camellias. Hybridising is a genetic lottery.
Andrew noted that he uses Grow Better fertiliser. All fertilisers must be ‘digested’ by the soil which will give good results. Fertilising in Spring should be with an inorganic type which takes time to be used by the plant, and organic fertiliser in Autumn when the soil is warmer and plants can utilise it quicker.
Paradise Blush is a best seller, very vigorous and needs pruning. Pruning of Camellias should be done after flowering. The soil should be mulched and fed to keep the soil healthy. Dolomite is absorbed via leaves as well as the roots. Camellias require Sulphur. Crossing the earliest flowering with the latest flowering plants has created “Wills Wonder".
