Camellia and Azalea Flower Blight

What it looks like

Petals develop brown, water-soaked spots or blotches that spread until the whole flower turns brown and collapses. Blooms drop early, but the leaves and stems on the same plant look perfectly normal.

When it shows up in the Triangle

Shows up during bloom time — late winter to early spring for camellias, and spring for azaleas and rhododendrons.

Where you’ll see it

Affects the flowers of camellias, azaleas, and rhododendrons.

What you can do

• Pick up and throw away fallen or mushy blooms right away — don't compost them
• Clear out old flowers still hanging on the plant once they start browning
• Replace the mulch underneath the plant each year to remove overwintering fungus
• Water at the base of the plant instead of overhead, especially during bloom