Keep camellias moist

Camellias form their flower buds on the new growth they made this year. The small flower buds will be fatter than the growth buds. But they’re very vulnerable to drought and if the plants aren’t kept moist these buds will stop developing, even though they may not drop off until next spring, just when you expect them to open. Plants in pots, especially on a sunny patio, are very vulnerable to drying out, especially as the stiff leaves don’t immediately wilt as the compost dries out. Keep them moist, whether in the garden border or in pots, to be sure of a good display of blooms next spring.