# How to Mulch Camellias
More than 250 species of camellias exist, and thousands of cultivars have been created over hundreds of years of cultivation. While the tea camellia (Camellia sinensis) is grown in plantations for leaf harvest, numerous other species are grown for their large, ornate flowers that occur from fall to spring. All camellias prosper in mild winter climates in moist, acidic soils that have proper drainage. Mulching the soil provides numerous cultural benefits, including moderating soil temperatures, conserving moisture, providing nutrients and preventing weeds.
Things You'll Need
- Rake
- Measuring tape or ruler
Instructions
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Scatter the mulch widely around the base of the camellia shrub. Mulch needs to cover the root zone, which extends 3 to 10 feet away from the plant's trunk. The larger and older the camellia, the broader and larger the root system. Rake the mulch to even it out in the garden.
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2
Apply enough mulch to create a layer 2 to 4 inches thick. This depth is after the mulch naturally settles after several weeks. During installation, the loose, fresh mulch needs to be 3 to 5 inches deep because it will slowly compact. Use a tape measure or ruler as a general guide occasionally to verify you're spreading the mulch at roughly the appropriate depth. There's no need to measure every square foot.
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3
Pull back the mulch from the trunk and root flare at the base of the trunk. Keep mulch 4 to 6 inches away from the camellia's base in order to promote aeration and faster evaporation of rain and irrigation water. Heaping mulch on the camellia's flaring trunk base prolongs wet conditions that encourage rot and fungal diseases.
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Replenish the mulch once or twice annually to maintain a layer 2 to 4 inches deep. Organic mulches such as pine straw, bark or shredded leaves decompose to add humus and nutrients to the soil. New mulch must be added to keep the mulch layer consistent and looking attractive.
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