Why Do My Camelia Flowers Go Brown And Drop Off Unopened?

Question

My double white Camelia flowers turn brown and sometimes drop off partly opened. In past years I have always believed the late winter/early spring rain rotted the petals, but this year we had a long dry sunny few weeks when they were coming into flower. If anything they have been worse this year, with absolutely none of the flowers opening. I do feed the bushes with Eracacious feed on a regular basis. This problem is getting to the point that we are considering chopping the bush down and replacing it with something more reliable. I’m not sure my photos have uploaded properly, I apologise if not.

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Answer 1

Insects such as mites, thrips and lacebugs can cause this as well as over or underwatering. These articles should help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/camellia/camellia-flowers-not-opening.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/controlling-thrips.htm