Propagating Camellias: Air Layering vs. Cuttings

Robin wants to start more camellias from a pink-blooming tree. Asks how.

Methods (The Long Island Gardener)

Seeds: 4-20 years to bloom—too slow.

Cuttings: Notoriously difficult; winter impossible. Best late July-Sept when growth 80% hardened. Southern California Camellia Society uses custom rooting powder (IBA/NAA/Celluwet).

Air Layering (Recommended): International Camellia Society method. Spring ideal.

1. Select strong 1-year-old branch, 1-2 ft from tip.
2. Make two slices, peel bark, scrape green cambium.
3. Apply rooting powder, wrap with wet sphagnum moss.
4. Enclose in plastic wrap, cover with aluminum foil (shiny out).
5. Leave months; roots grow into moss. Don't peek!
6. When roots visible, cut below, remove wrap, pot up. Blooms next year.

NC State and SoCal Camellia Society links provided.