Question
My camellias are over 20 years old and now they completely block my north facing windows. They produce some but not many blooms, so, I am wondering if I can transplant them into big pots in a sunnier part of the yard, while planting something else more suited to the north. And, any ideas what that might be? Thank you and Happy New Year.
Cindy
San Francisco
Answer
Twenty years in the ground is a long time. Digging up the Camellias will damage much of the root system and they may not survive the move to containers. However, should you decide that they really must go, now is the time to do it. You will need to cut them back dramatically (at least by half) as the reduced roots will not be able to support the existing size. You can also cut them back severely to regain a view through your windows. If the decision stands to replace them, consider ferns, Hosta, Sarcococca, Holly, Nandina, Podocarpus, Acanthus and Mahonia.
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