Plants should be well mulched using pine straw or other organic materials. Mulch helps to preserve soil moisture, prevents growth of weeds, and adds nutrients to the soil as it decomposes. Young camellias are considered to be shallow rooted plants and benefit from a fertilizer formulated for acid-lovers. The soil in the gardens is slightly acidic sandy clay loam. Because of the rich humus content, little fertilization of mature camellias is needed.
Camellias are susceptible to only a few insect and disease pests.
Tea scale is commonly seen on the underside of the leaves. Spider mites are found during hot, dry weather, and cause a bronze appearance on the top surface of leaves. One of the best defenses against camellia disease is to maintain good air movement around and through the plants. Limbs within 12 to 18 inches of the soil should be removed. Plants should be thinned to open the center, and any crossing branches should also be removed.