Propagation by Seed

Growing camellias from seed is the easiest method of propagation and will give you a world of possibilities.

Growing plants from seed presents the gardening enthusiast with a real challenge. Camellias do not come true from seed and very rarely is a good flower produced from seed. Out of many seedlings, the chances for a superior variety are very slim since camellias have been hybridized for over 2000 years to produce the varieties available today.

Camellia seed ripen at different times depending on variety and location. However, seed generally mature in early fall. When seed are mature the pod begins to crack slightely and seed are ready to be picked. Soak the seed for 12 hours or crack carefully the hard coat to aid in germination. Plant in good soil, peat moss, or a combination of peat moss and sand. Keep the soil damp. Seed usually germinate in one month if planted immediately after harvesting. Other seed may not germinate until spring.

Once the seed have germinated, transplant into containers or outside. Cutting off the tap root will produce a more fibrous root system and is helpful if planting in a container. If planted outside the tap root will help the plant survive during periods of drought or severe cold. Better germination will occur when seed are planted immediately upon ripening.