Fertilizing Mature Camellias in Santa Monica

Dusty, brown-tinged leaves on camellias indicate iron and phosphorus deficiency. Use a high-phosphorus, low-nitrogen fertilizer (5-20-10 NPK) with iron — Miracle-Gro or Peter's water-soluble. Apply every 10 days starting 2 weeks after planting. Amend soil with peat, compost, and aged manure for sustained nutrition, pH balance, and drainage. Organic soil boosts disease and pest resistance.