How to Grow Camelia From Seed

Collect ripe seedpods from the camellia shrub in early fall when they turn deep green or red. Gently tap the seedpods that are not already cracked with a hammer to release the contained seeds. Each seedpod typically contains five to 10 seeds, depending on the variety.

Fill a round bowl with water and immerse the seeds in it. After 20 minutes, separate and discard the floating seeds from those at the bottom. Floating seeds are not viable and will fail to germinate. Spread the viable seeds on a paper towel to dry.

Fill a 3- to 5-inch pot with well-draining, lightweight potting mix consisting of two-thirds sphagnum moss or peat moss and one-third perlite. Check that the plant pot has at least one drainage hole through its base or drill it if necessary.

Water the plant pot until excess water drains out through the hole at its base. Insert two to three evenly spaced camellia seeds 1/4-inch deep in the mix, with the eyes or bumps facing downward or sideways. The eye or bump is the point on the seed from which roots emerge.

Sprinkle a light layer of potting mix over the seeds. Mist the medium lightly to help set the seeds. Insert each pot in a clear plastic bag and seal its opening with tape.

Place the pot in a warm, sheltered spot with consistent temperatures between 70 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. The bag retains heat and raises humidity to 100 percent, increasing chances of germination.

Inspect the potting mix regularly and water lightly to keep it from drying. Germination usually occurs in two to four weeks. Remove the plastic bag when the seedlings grow 2 inches tall and move to a warm windowsill with indirect, bright light.