Camellias are best transplanted in late winter or early spring when they are dormant in northern areas. The soil where planted should be well-drained. In places like North Carolina and states to the south, the plants can be moved in fall, winter, or spring. For a 2-3 foot plant, dig a rootball about 13 inches in diameter. Add 2 inches to the diameter of the rootball for each foot of height greater then 3 feet. Plant camelias in an area that provides alternating sunshine and shade in summer, complete shade in winter, and protection from winter winds. A planting site under tall pine trees or on the north side of a building provides a good growing site. Camellia japonica is the hardiest species, it is the best species for planting along the Atlantic coast north of Washington, DC. It can bloom in winter if conditions are right, but usually blooms in spring.

Courtesy of Plant Information Service