Question From:
donna in lucknow, Orange NSW
Nature of problem:
I want to espalier a Camellia sasanqua ‘Something Special’ along a south east facing brick wall, the wall is 8 mts long and 1.5 mts high. There is a garden bed (40 cm wide) in front of the wall which is edged with cement and stone. There are Agapanthas growing in the bed which i want to remove and plant the Camellia to be trained along the wall. I am worried that the bed may not be wide enough for the Camellia’s root system. I do not want to remove the edging.
Type of Plant (if known):
Camellia sasanqua
Symptoms of Plant Illness (please try NOT to diagnose your problems yourself):
n/a
Soil Type (e.g. sandy, clay or loam) OR Potting Mix Type:
clay
How often do you water the plant:
when required
How many hours of sunlight does the plant get each day:
seven
What type of plant is it:
Camellia
How long since you planted it:
n/a
Have you fertilised? If so, with what and when:
n/a
Is the plant indoors or outdoors:
outdoors
Is the plant in a pot or in the ground:
pot
What other treatments have you given the plant:
n/a
Upload photo if available:
Other Comments:
Any suggestions on pattern for espaliering this Camellia, something simple as this will be my first attempt.
Answer: Hi Donna, I am still confused about the raised garden bed, I have never heard of clay soil in one. If it is clay, you might consider digging it all ot, mixing it with horticultural sand and compost and then putting it back in. While the soil is out, check to see if there is a concrete or similar base to the bed. If there is, the camellia might not thrive. Check to see what drainage there is too. Ideally there will be weep holes in the raised bed. For espalier details go to our website burkesbackyard.com.au and search for espaliiers. Don
