Camellia shrub in ericaceous compost in tub

Question

Every year buds appear on the plant but then they never open. They just seem to dry up and drop off. Why is this happening & what can I do to stop it?

Thank you.
Sue Colman
Clifton Hampden
Oxfordshire

• 
• 

Answer 1

This can be due to many reasons, unfortunately. Over and underwatering can cause this, as will temperature swings. If the soil is not acidic enough, then it can affect this as well.

I could recommend getting a soil test kit, or probe, and testing the pH, and the electrical conductivity. This will tell you if your soil is too alkaline or acidic, and how much nutrients are in the soil. This would be a good starting point.

This article will get you started on figuring out why this is happening: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/camellia/camellia-flowers-not-opening.htm