This 12-ft-tall camellia was said to be a bush when I bought it.
by
Louise
+7
However, it's not and I want to trim it substantially. I'd prefer it not be over 6 ft. Can I successfully do that? If so, any hints as to the best way to accomplish that?
I trim about 2 feet off mine in the front each year. They will be bushier by trimming the top also. I like to trim mine right after it blooms in the spring so it develops lots of buds for the next year.
Sharon is correct. This bush has been let go for some time. Trim back when appropriate. Here is how!
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/camellia/pruning-camellias-how-to-prune-a-camellia-plant.htm
Trim the ends of the branches after the "bush" stops flowering.
I also have a "Camellia bush" that has become a tree. A few years ago we had work done on the house and was informed that it had to go because its roots were too close to the foundation. They dug it up, dug out the roots, redesigned the hill it was on, put down plastic and mulched the area. A couple of years later the "bush" was back and now it is again almost as tall as the house! I am hoping the link posted above will also help me control my bush.
Trim back after flowering, if worried, trim only half back by 1/3rd and the other part by 2/3rds. (Back taller than front and see how that works for you. If all ok next year do the same again until you get the size you want.......The keep it trimmed each year.........
Wow looks like its never been pruned. I prune mine 2x a year, in the spring after blooming and in the fall if it grew too much trying not to take too many buds off.
Since its so out of control, you might consider getting an arborist to do it for you.
You're right. I've never trimmed it. I didn't know I had to. Guess I know now! :-)