Camellia japonica ‘Betty Ridley’ offers vibrant color during the autumn and winter months. Its large formal double pink flowers are a sight to behold, adding a touch of elegance to shady areas. One of the notable advantages of ‘Betty Ridley’ is its versatility in landscaping. It can serve various purposes such as screening, hedging, or even standing alone as a focal point in the garden. Its dense foliage also makes it an excellent choice for fence line planting, providing both beauty and privacy. With its ability to thrive in shady conditions, ‘Betty Ridley’ offers an opportunity to bring life and color to areas of the garden that may otherwise be overlooked during the colder seasons. Its blooms are sure to brighten up any space and attract attention from admirers.
Product Specifications
- Common Name: Japonica Betty Ridley
- Form: Upright
- Decious / Evergreen: Evergreen
- Uses:Â Feature / Specimen, hedging, evergreen screening
- Planting Distance: 1-2 meters apart for screening hedge
- Mature Height: 3 meters plus
- Mature Width: 1-2 meters
- Position: Partial shade – Full shade
- Flower Colour: Formal mid pink
- Flowering Period: Autumn – Winter
- Soil Type:Â Thrives in well-draining, well-fertilized soil.
- Water Requirements: Low – medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium -benefits from gentle prune and fertalizer
- Planter Suitability:Â Yes, ensure adequate room for growth
Commonly Asked Questions
When does Betty Ridley Camellia’s flower?
Japonica Betty Ridley flowers during the Winter and Spring months. Deadheading camellias is optional and mainly done for cosmetic reasons. If you enjoy the appearance of a clean and tidy plant, you can remove spent flowers, but it’s not essential for the health or future blooming of the camellia.
How far apart do I plant them for a screening hedge?
Plant Betty Ridley between 1-2 meters apart for a dence screening hedge. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain a consistent soil temperature. Understand that it may take some time for the camellias to grow and fill in the hedge. Be patient, and as the plants mature, they will create a dense and attractive hedge.
When should I fertilise my camellias?
The best time to fertilize camellias is in late winter or early spring, just before the growing season begins. Fertilizing at this time provides nutrients to support new growth and flower development. It’s essential to use a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for acid-loving plants, as camellias prefer acidic soil. Additionally, follow the recommended dosage on the fertilizer package to avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the plants.