Camellias will add color to blah winter garden.(Daily Press)

Just when you think the garden is asleep and empty of any color, along come camellias to brighten your winter day.

Camellia japonica _ the camellia with the large, glossy leaves _ offer some of their most spectacular blooms now through early March.

Most camellias grow and produce better flowers in partial shade, says the American Camellia Society.

Choose a planting site with well-drained soil. Do not plant camellias where shade trees with shallow root systems will compete with camellias for nutrients and water.

Plants in the sun may suffer scald on the leaves, or leave may appear yellow rather than deep green.

Plants of Camellia …