can I repair a split at the base of camellia

Question

Can I repair a split at the base of a camellia? The plant is about 18 inches tall and in a small pot. I only just bought it and when I came home noticed that at the base, where the stem divides, there is a 1″ split. This is not new. Can I bind it to repair and, if so, what can I apply to the damaged area? Many thanks.

Answer 1

Plant tape or electrical tape will work nicely and is said to be stretchy enough to accommodate for plant growth. You can provide your camellia further support by inserting dowels or craft sticks in the soil by the stem and taping that to the plant to keep it upright, if that is necessary.

Is the wound sealed? I am thinking it might be since you said the split wasn't new. If the split is not sealed, you could dust a little cinnamon on the open plant wound. Cinnamon is a natural fungicide.

For more information on the use of cinnamon in gardening, please visit the following link:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-cinnamon-on-plants.htm

For more information on the care of camellias, please visit the following link:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/camellia/growing-camellias-how-to-propagate-camellias.htm