How to Cut Camellias
- 1). Cut camellias early in the morning before the sun has a chance to dry them out or late in the evening when the sugar content is high. Select buds that are just beginning to open for the longest vase life.
- 2). Cut the stems at a slight angle to allow more surface area for water absorption. Leave a long stem attached to the camellia bud and cut just above a lateral side branch, if possible. Cutting above a side branch encourages regrowth.
- 3). Place the stems in a bucket of lukewarm water immediately after cutting.
- 4). Peel 1 inch of bark from the lower end of the stem with a sharp knife. Lay the stem on a hard surface and rap the peeled end of the stem with a hammer.
- 5). Make a 1-inch vertical cut in the peeled end of the stem, if possible.
- 6). Remove lower leaves that would otherwise be under water in the vase and prepare your arrangement.
- 7). Mix a floral preservative according to the package instructions and fill the vase with water and preservative. Change the water every other day.
Source...