Camellia Sasanqua Paradise Blush

• Paradise Blush is a sasanqua camellia variety known for its soft pink, semi-double flowers that bloom from autumn to winter. The delicate blooms create a romantic, cottage garden appeal.
• Native to Japan and China, sasanqua camellias are more sun-tolerant than their japonica cousins. They're prized for extending the flowering season when few other shrubs are blooming.
• This variety typically grows as a medium-sized evergreen shrub with glossy green foliage year-round. Gardeners love it for reliable winter colour and low-maintenance nature once established.

• Water weekly during establishment, then reduce to twice weekly in summer and weekly in winter. Check soil moisture by inserting finger 5cm deep into soil.
• Position in morning sun with afternoon shade, or filtered light throughout the day. Avoid hot western sun which can stress the plant.
• Plant in well-draining, acidic to neutral soil with added compost or aged manure. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged conditions.
• Feed with camellia-specific fertilizer in early spring and again in summer. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which promote foliage at expense of flowers.
• Prune lightly after flowering ends in late winter to maintain shape. Remove spent flowers and any dead or diseased branches.
• Mulch around base with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent collar rot.

• Provide morning sun with afternoon shade, especially in hot Australian climates. Too much direct afternoon sun can scorch leaves and reduce flowering.
• Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Increase watering during flowering season and hot summer months.
• Plant in well-draining, slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Prune lightly after flowering finishes to maintain shape and encourage next season's blooms. Remove dead or crossing branches for better air circulation.

• Scale insects can attach to stems and leaves, causing yellowing and weak growth. Treat with horticultural oil or remove manually with a soft brush.
• Root rot occurs from overwatering or poor drainage, causing wilting and leaf drop. Improve soil drainage and reduce watering frequency.
• Aphids cluster on new growth and flower buds, secreting sticky honeydew. Spray off with water or apply insecticidal soap.
• Leaf spot diseases create brown patches on foliage in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.