of foam pellets at the bottom, use pine cones that will decompose and add to organic composition of the soil. Experts train fine-leaved dwarf varieties into bonsai. Camellia Winter's Snowman. Camellia enthusiasts have even more tricks up their gardening sleeves, as when they talk the showtalk of " gibbing " in August for fall flower shows. This means applying gibberellic acid with an eye dropper. One drop on a bud makes all cells elongate for supersized blooms that open early to wow the judges. They know well the six exquisite flower forms: single (conspicuous stamens) with one row of petals; semi-double with two rows of petals; anemone form; peony form; rose form double (overlapping petals); and formal double (which never show stamens). Colors range from pristine white to pink to deep red with variations including peppermint striped, speckled, splashed with varying colors and different patterns, sometimes on one plant. The C. sasanqua Yuletide is a true red and one of the most popular varieties. Place their bright blooms in December wreaths or with holiday garland. Fall is the perfect time to plant camellias, so do indulge now. Be generous in digging the hole wider than the container and twice as deep in well-draining soil. Most importantly, be sure the top of the root ball is even with the soil surface. New plants appreciate a good, 2-inch-thick mulch. Gorgeous blossoms will distinguish your cooling landscape and floating them in a shallow bowl will make your table sparkle. Camellia sasanqua Hot Flash. Camellia Winter's Fire. C. Lu Shan Snow. co-opliving.com October 2019 | Cooperative Living | 29http://www.co-opliving.com