The Camellia Gardener Blog — climate

  It's long been a quest to grow Camellias outdoors in colder climates.  But in many instances, you are asking Camellias to do something that they are just not capable of doing.  So here are a few tips if you are trying to decide to grow Camellias in your area and how you can do it!   Ideal Climate Zones The Camellia Belt, or the best growing climates for Camellias are in zone 8, 9 and sometimes 10.  This warmer region of the US is quite suitable for growing Camellias outdoors.  Camellias can generally tolerate some freezing temperatures, but they don't...

This is the question I’ve frequently been asked as a grower.  A simple yes or no is what many people want, but the answer is quite complex.  I usually respond with “it depends on many factors”.  Overall Plant Preferences Camellia sinensis can produce growth for harvesting in 80-90°F temperatures.  When dormant, they could tolerate mid 20’s with precautions.  Your Location Your location will be a big factor in determining if Camellia sinensis can grow outdoors during cold weather.   You can refer to the climate zone map on page 12.   Usually, zones 8 and 9 are well suited for growing tea.  ...

The USDA  Climate zone map is beneficial in determining the cold hardiness of plants in certain regions.  We often refer plants to certain climate zones.  To lookup you climate zone, find your region on the map and then find the corresponding color on the chart under the map to see your zone number.  The numbers under the color chart indicate the approximate minimum temperatures your area experiences. Zone 10  Extremely Favorable Suitable for growing some varieties in the ground, but mainly in containers.  Can plant year round.  The lack of cooler temperatures may not be great for Ornamental Camellias but for Camellia...