How to Prune Camelias

Pruning a camellia shrub prevents disease.

Camellia shrubs were once a staple in the Victorian garden and are native to Korea, Japan and China. In the southern United States they bloom in early winter and spring. While camellia shrubs do not need frequent pruning, they may become scraggly if neglected. Pruning helps prevent disease by allowing air to circulate around the plant. The best time to prune a camellia shrub is in May or June, after it has finished flowering. If done at a different time it won’t hurt the plant, but it may remove buds needed for the next bloom.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears or hedge clippers

Instructions

1. Remove any dead branches from the camellia shrub.

2. Cut off any camellia branches rubbing against each other. Removing branches that grow back towards the middle of the plant will keep it looking neat.

3. Remove any weak or undersized branches from the camellia shrub. Cut them off where they attach to the larger branch.

4. Shape the camellia by pruning 1 to 2 inches off of each branch.

5. Stop pruning when the camellia shrub looks clean and is a pleasing shape.

References

• Texas Agrilife Extension Service: Camellias – Southern Charm with a History
• University of Minnesota Extension: Pruning Trees and Shrubs