Camellia ‘Kramer’s Supreme’ is a popular and visually appealing variety, known for its striking beauty. It is a favored choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Understanding Camellia Kramer Supreme
The ‘Kramer’s Supreme’ camellia features large, brilliant red, peony-form flowers, 5 to 6 inches in diameter. These blooms have numerous petals, creating a full, rounded appearance, often with a subtle fragrance. The plant grows into a dense, upright shrub, reaching 10 to 15 feet tall with a 6 to 10 foot spread. It blooms from mid to late winter, providing vibrant color when other plants are dormant. It thrives in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 7 through 9, preferring mild winters and moderate summers.
Essential Care for Camellia Kramer Supreme
Light and Location
‘Kramer’s Supreme’ camellias thrive in partial shade, especially protected from intense afternoon sun. Morning sun is beneficial, promoting growth and flowering. Ideal filtered light conditions can be found under taller trees or on the north or east side of a building. Avoiding direct, prolonged midday sun prevents leaf scorch.
Soil Requirements
These camellias require well-draining, acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5). Rich organic content is beneficial, improving drainage and nutrient retention. Incorporating aged pine bark fines, compost, or peat moss amends heavy clay or sandy soils. This ensures roots establish and access nutrients without waterlogging.
Watering Needs
Consistent moisture is important for ‘Kramer’s Supreme’ camellias, especially during dry periods and blooming. Deep watering once or twice a week is more effective than frequent shallow watering, encouraging deeper root development. Soil should remain consistently damp but never saturated, as waterlogging leads to root rot. During warmer months or active growth, monitor soil moisture and adjust watering frequency.
Fertilization
Fertilize ‘Kramer’s Supreme’ camellias in late winter or early spring, after blooming and as new growth emerges. Use a slow-release, acid-forming fertilizer formulated for camellias, azaleas, and rhododendrons. These fertilizers contain a balanced nutrient profile with higher nitrogen for foliage growth. Follow product instructions for application rates to prevent over-fertilization, which can damage the plant.
Pruning Techniques
Prune ‘Kramer’s Supreme’ camellias immediately after flowering, in late winter or early spring. This timing allows the plant to set new flower buds for the following year. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches to maintain good air circulation. Light shaping can also control size and form, making cuts just above a leaf or dormant bud.
Planting and Establishment
Select a healthy ‘Kramer’s Supreme’ camellia from a reputable nursery, choosing plants with vibrant green foliage and no signs of stress or pest damage. Dig the planting hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil. This elevated planting helps prevent water pooling around the stem. After placing the plant, backfill with amended soil, gently firming it to remove air pockets, then water thoroughly. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as pine straw or bark, around the base to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Bud drop is a common issue for ‘Kramer’s Supreme’, often caused by inconsistent watering, extreme temperature fluctuations, or inadequate light. Consistent moisture and appropriate shade can mitigate this. Yellowing leaves (chlorosis) indicate iron deficiency, often due to high soil pH or poor drainage; amending the soil to be more acidic and improving drainage can alleviate this. Pests like scale insects or aphids can be managed with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Root rot, a fungal disease, results from overly wet soil and is prevented by excellent drainage and avoiding overwatering.