You can`t help but be attracted to the beauty of Camellias and other acid loving plants. It makes them one of the most popular plants in New Zealand gardens. Below is a quick guide to pests and diseases that Camellias can be prone to.

Problem: Aphids

Symptoms: Clusters of insects on young growth.
Remedy: Spray with Orthene at 2 weekly intervals.

Problem: Mites

Symptoms: Leaves yellow (stippled or mottled) and dehydrated in hot dry weather.
Remedy: Spray with mite killer.

Problem: Thrips

Symptoms: Leaves silver and dry. Brown-black specks appear on underside of leaves.
Remedy: Spray with Orthene at 2-3 weekly intervals through summer.

Problem: Sooty Mould

Symptoms: Black sooty mould on leaves and twigs.
Remedy: Spray with Mavrik or Maldison.

Problem: Petal Blight

The Camellias shown on the right are perfectly healthy but Petal Blight can be a problem...

Symptoms: Earliest symptom is light brown or whitish coloured circular spots on petals. Spots enlarge to form irregular blotches until whole flower collapses. Petals feel slimy when rubbed between fingers. Diseased flowers dry up and cling to the plant (leaves and stems are not affected).
Remedy: Avoid overhead watering. Pick off diseased flowers. Spray at two weekly intervals with Fungus Fighter and Shield

Problem: Lack of Fertiliser

Symptoms: Leaves yellow and/or develop dark purple tone. Slow, stunted growth.
Remedy: Fertilise with Butlers Azalea, Camellia and Rhododendron food in late spring after flower finishes and just before new growth starts.

Problem: Soil too Alkaline

Symptoms: Decline in vigour and leaves turn yellow while the veins remain green.
Remedy: Fertilise with Butlers Azalea, Camellia and Rhododendron Food in late spring after flowering finishes and just before new growth starts. Do NOT lime.

Problem: Leaf Gall

Symptoms: Developing leaves and flowers are thickened, fleshy and pale green. As the thickenings enlarge, they become white or pink, with powdery appearance during wet weather.
Remedy: Remove and burn all infected parts. Spray with Shield.