Camellia Camellia 'Freedom Bell'

Water

Camellias, including the 'Freedom Bell' Camellia, prefer consistently moist soil but do not do well with waterlogged roots. They should be watered deeply and thoroughly to ensure that the moisture reaches the root zone. During the growing season, water to provide at least an inch of moisture per week, which for a medium-sized plant equates to roughly 0.5 gallons. In the absence of rain, this may require supplemental watering, especially during prolonged dry spells. It's crucial to reduce watering in the winter months when the plant is not actively growing. The frequency of watering will depend on soil type and climate, but generally, watering every 5 to 7 days during active growth is sufficient. Use the finger test to check the soil moisture level; water when the top couple of inches of soil feel dry to the touch.

Light

Camellia 'Freedom Bell' grows best in partial shade to dappled sunlight. It thrives under the protection of high tree canopies that provide filtered light. Avoid placing it in direct afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates, as this may cause the leaves to scorch. Morning sunlight with afternoon shade works well for Camellias and will help bloom production without causing heat stress. Ensure the plant is located in a spot with indirect light for the greater part of the day for optimal growth and flowering.

Temperature

The 'Freedom Bell' Camellia is hardy in USDA zones 7-9‎, and it prefers temperatures that are consistently cool to moderate. The minimum temperature for Camellias to survive is typically around 0 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit, but their ideal temperature range for flourishing is between 40 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate short periods of colder weather down to about 5 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below this can cause damage to the plant.

Pruning

Prune the 'Freedom Bell' Camellia to maintain shape, remove any dead or crossing branches, and to promote healthy growth. The best time to prune is just after the blooms have faded in the spring to avoid cutting off next year's buds. Camellias set their flower buds in the early summer for the following season, so late pruning can remove these buds and reduce flowering. Annually pruning or at least every other year will help keep the plant looking its best and encourage more prolific blooming.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Camellias require acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 for optimal growth. A good soil mix for Camellia 'Freedom Bell' would consist of equal parts well-draining potting soil, peat moss, and pine bark. This composition ensures both moisture retention and good drainage, key to avoiding root rot while providing an acidic environment.

Repotting

Camellia 'Freedom Bell' should be repotted every two to three years or when it becomes root-bound. It's best to repot in the late winter or early spring just before new growth begins, using an acidic soil mix and a slightly larger pot to accommodate root growth.

Humidity & Misting

The Camellia 'Freedom Bell' prefers high humidity levels, around 50-60%. To maintain optimal humidity, one can use a humidifier, place a water tray beneath the plant, or mist the leaves regularly, avoiding over-wetting to prevent fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright, indirect light and maintain acidic soil.

• Outdoor

  Place in partial shade, sheltered from harsh sun and wind.

• Hardiness zone

  7-9 USDA

Life cycle

Camellia 'Freedom Bell' begins its life as a seed, which, under suitable conditions, germinates to produce a small seedling. The seedling then enters a vegetative growth stage, developing a root system and foliage as it matures into a young plant. Over several years, Camellia 'Freedom Bell' grows into a mature shrub with dense, glossy, evergreen leaves. Upon reaching maturity, the plant begins its reproductive phase, typically producing red, bell-shaped flowers in the fall or winter, depending on the climate. After pollination, flowers give way to seed capsules which ripen and eventually release seeds to start the cycle anew. Throughout its life cycle, Camellia 'Freedom Bell' may undergo periods of dormancy, especially in colder climates, to survive adverse weather conditions until favorable growth conditions return.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Camellia 'Freedom Bell', commonly referred to simply as Camellia, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This method involves taking a cutting from new growth that has started to mature and harden off, generally in late summer or early fall. Cut a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 centimeters) portion from the stem, ensuring it includes at least two leaf nodes. The lower leaves are then removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then placed in a well-draining potting mix, thoroughly watered, and kept in a warm, humid environment, often under some form of protective covering like a plastic bag or a propagator to maintain consistent humidity. Roots typically form within a few months, after which the cutting can be gradually acclimated to less humid conditions and eventually transplanted outdoors.