Magnolia Grandiflora Care
- Light. Southern Magnolias do best in partial shade, particularly if soil conditions aren't all that moist. ...
- Soil. Southern magnolias do best in moist, well-drained, loamy, acidic, and fertile soils. ...
- Water. ...
- Temperature and Humidity. ...
- Fertilizer. ...
How do you care for an indoor magnolia tree?
indoor magnolia plant. + Light — Low light or indirect light indoors, does not tolerate direct sun. + Water — Provide it plenty of water to keep moist through spring and summer, reduce watering in the winter. To avoid overwatering, the soil should feel moist to the touch after watering, not wet.
How to take care of a magnolia tree?
Tips on Magnolia Tree Care
- Location. The best location to plant a magnolia tree depends on whether it is evergreen or deciduous, and its particular cultivar.
- Soil and Nutrients. Most varieties of magnolia grow best in porous soil with a pH of 5.0 to 6.5. ...
- Pruning. ...
- Pests and Disease. ...
Can you grow magnolia tree from cut branches?
Start a magnolia tree from a cutting. Instead of growing one from scratch, you can grow a magnolia tree by cutting off a piece from an existing magnolia tree and planting it in the ground. Cut 6-8 inches from a growing magnolia branch with a sterilized pruner, and place the branch in water to sustain it. Place the cuttings in planters with potting soil and trap them in plastic bags to keep in the humidity.
Can we grow magnolia tree in homes?
When looking for the perfect show-stopping tree, a magnolia is a great option. And while standard magnolia varieties can reach up to 80 feet tall, several smaller cultivars max out at 20 feet. This means it's doable to grow them in a container that can be moved to suit your space's (and your tree's) needs.
See more
How do you keep a magnolia tree healthy?
As part of your magnolia tree care, you'll need to water the trees to keep the soil around the base of the tree moist. It is especially important to keep young trees well-watered until they become established. Fertilize in spring when the flower buds begin to swell with a slow-release fertilizer.
What does a magnolia tree need to survive?
Magnolia Growing ConditionsSoil: Slightly acidic, moist, loose, well-draining soil. ... Hardiness: Grow best in Zones 7-10, depending on variety, with a few cultivars hardy to zone 5.Light: Full sun to partial shade. ... Water: Magnolias benefit from irrigation the first few years, then they are tolerant of moderate drought.More items...
Are magnolias low maintenance?
Although magnolia trees are surprisingly low maintenance, magnolia tree roots can cause problems for a homeowner. Read on to find out the type of magnolia tree root damage to expect if you plant these tree close to the house.
How much water does a magnolia grandiflora need?
Watering Magnolias Whatever their size, magnolias are low-maintenance plants that don't require frequent watering. In general, you should water magnolia trees once a week during the first two growing seasons and twice a month in subsequent years.
How do I look after my magnolia tree?
Magnolias prefer a moist, well-drained soil which is rich in organic matter, so it is well worth adding some well-rotted manure or compost to the planting hole, mixing it thoroughly and deeply. Most magnolias will thrive on a neutral or slightly acid soil, with a pH of around 5.5 – 6.5.
What is the best fertilizer for a magnolia tree?
Most magnolia tree varieties grow best when they received fertilizers to have an ample amount of nitrogen. This means that fertilizers with an NPK ratio of 20-5-10 or 12-4-8 are most ideal for the tree. That being said, magnolia trees can also benefit from all-purpose fertilizers as well.
How do you prune a Magnolia grandiflora?
Either cut off the lower branches to encourage upward growth and/or prune heavily in the spring (just before growth begins in, say, early April) to produce dense growth. We can't over emphasise the benefits of pruning these trees to keep them dense – please ask us for more information if you're not convinced.
How fast do Magnolia grandiflora grow?
Evergreen magnolias, such as Magnolia grandiflora, can be trained against a wall. A magnolia bush or tree is a long-term investment – they are slow growing and can take 10-20 years to reach their ultimate size. It's therefore worth taking the time to choose the right variety for your garden.
Does Magnolia grandiflora have invasive roots?
"Similarly, thanks to the magnolia's crowded under-soil space the roots occupy and the dense canopy of magnolia leaves, it's almost impossible for any other plantings to thrive near it." Take a look at the invasive trees and plants below...
What do you feed Magnolia grandiflora?
Feeding Magnolia Trees Use a liquid ericaceous fertiliser, such as Miracle-Gro Liquid Ericaceous Plant food.
Can you overwater a magnolia?
Yes, you can over-water your magnolia tree. Magnolias prefer soil that is moist. However, like many garden plants, their roots can drown if they are constantly kept in water. They can also develop fungal issues such as root rot, which can be detrimental to the tree's life.
How can you tell if a magnolia tree is overwatered?
Signs of Overwatering TreesThe area around the tree is constantly wet.New growth withers before it's fully grown or becomes light green or yellow.Leaves appear green but are fragile and break easily.
Q. The Flower Buds on My Magnolia Tree Aren't Opening Up. How come?
The failure to open is usually the result of poor weather conditions—too much rain or temperatures that are too cold. Another possible cause is an invasion by an insect called a thrip .
Q. This Fall, I've Found Some Funny-Looking Bumps on My Magnolia Trees. Is This Some Sort of Disease?
The "bumps" in this case turn out to be a false alarm. But it's an understandable mistake for a beginner. View the picture in this article to the false alarm that caused the worry; armed with this knowledge, you won't make the same mistake (there's plenty else to worry about without enduring false alarms, right?).
Q. I Have a Southern Magnolia. Its Leaves Have Turned Yellow. Is It Dying?
Southern magnolias are one of the grand trees of the South. When their leaves turn yellow, that may or may not be a sign of a problem. Click the link above to learn more. 1
Q. When Should You Prune Magnolia Trees?
The decision to prune a magnolia tree depends on many factors. The most important one is selecting the best time to prune so that blooming is not interrupted.
Q. I'm Growing a Magnolia Tree in a Container? How Should I Care for It?
Magnolias grown in containers require plenty of sunlight, proper nutritional supplements to the soil, and appropriate watering.
Q. How Do You Control Magnolia Scale?
Scale may appear as a fungus, but it actually an invasion of insects that must be brought under control or the entire tree can die.
Q. There's a Black Coating on My Specimen, and Ants Are Running All Over It. What's Wrong?
Don't assume that the ants and the black coating are the sources of the problem. They're actually both effects, not causes; consider their presence a signal for what's really wrong.
Ground Rules
Most magnolia trees do best in full sun, with at least 8 hours of direct sunlight. In more southern grow zones, some varieties can tolerate some afternoon shade.
Planting Process
Choose where you want to plant your magnolia tree. Ample planning ahead of time is key, depending on the mature size of your kind of magnolia. Choose a place with full sun, adequate drainage and lots of space for the shallow root system. Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the container your tree arrived in.
Extra Tips
When you receive your Magnolia Tree from Garden Goods Direct, it is possible it has gone through a bit of shock during shipment from being in a dark box - trees don't usually enjoy travelling. This is perfectly natural, and it should recover once in the ground. Symptoms of shipping shock in a tree include mild wilting or mild leaf drop.
What kinds of Magnolia trees are there?
Magnolias are native in a variety of areas, but they can be categorized into two main groups - deciduous and evergreen. There are some that are considered semi-evergreen because while technically deciduous they retain their foliage in warmer climates. Evergreen magnolias are typically characterized by their big glossy leaves that last all year.
Do Magnolia Trees need to be staked?
Taller Magnolias benefit from staking. Be sure to remove the stakes after the tree is established to avoid the guy-wires from cutting into the stem of the tree. Short lengths of garden hose surrounding the wire are an excellent way to protect the trunk from damage from the wire.
Should I prune my Magnolia Tree?
Magnolias rarely need pruning, and they do not respond well to it; it is best to limit how often you prune. Wait to prune until late spring or early summer, and remove any dead branches or branches that cross. If pruning for shape or to use branches for decoration, only prune what you must, less is more.
What do Magnolia Flowers Smell Like?
Magnolias are decadently fragrant, and are a sure way to create a relaxing oasis in your garden when they are in bloom. The scent varies depending on the species, but most are described as having a sweet scent that is very noticable. The notes vary from a light, lemony sweetness to a more spicy, musty scent.
Where can I grow magnolia trees?
The classic Southern magnolia is the famous specimen of this majestic tree, but there are many species and varieties of magnolias trees that can be grown almost anywhere in the United States. Whether you’re in Minnesota or Mississippi, there’s a magnolia that will grow in your garden.
How long do magnolia trees live?
Magnolia trees need little help from you to thrive. They’ll live up to a century in the right growing conditions. Get this: A Southern magnolia tree planted by Andrew Jackson in 1828 at the White House lived 190 years. The severely decayed tree was cut down in 2017 because it was too dangerous to leave standing.
How tall do saucer magnolias get?
Saucer magnolias can be a large shrub or small tree, reaching 20 to 25 feet in height. Flowers colors range from white with pink interiors to deep purple, depending on the cultivar. Cold hardy to Zone 4, so you can grow it a long way north.
How far do magnolias spread?
Magnolias are big trees, with some varieties spreading 40 feet across.
How tall is a cucumber tree magnolia?
This is the most cold-hardy group of magnolias, hardy to zone 4. It’s big like a Southern magnolia, reaching 60 feet in height, but has less showy flowers.
How tall does a magnolia tree grow?
It typically grows to 60 to 80 feet tall with a pyramidal to rounded crown. Photo by: Shutterstock/Nikolay Kurzenko. Shutterstock/Nikolay Kurzenko.
What is a star magnolia?
Star Magnolia (Magnolia sellata) Cold-hardy trees that grow star-shaped white or pink flowers. These natives to Japan are one of the earliest blooming trees producing flowers in late winter or earliest spring. They’re small, reaching just 15 to 20 feet in height.
How tall do magnolias get?
They grow 40 to 80 feet tall with a spread of 30 to 40 feet. Depending upon the species, magnolias may be evergreen, semi-evergreen or deciduous. Some of the deciduous types bloom in early spring before the tree leafs out.
What is the color of magnolia trees?
Image by Mariusz Brainard. Large, fragrant, white blossoms are just the beginning of the appeal of a magnolia tree. These attractive trees also feature glossy, dark green leaves and a large, exotic-looking pod that opens in fall to reveal bright orange-red berries which are relished by birds and other wildlife.
Can magnolias grow in wet soil?
If you are looking for an ornamental tree that will tolerate wet, soggy soil, you need look no further than a magnolia. Magnolia planting is best done in a moist, rich, slightly acidic soil that is amended with compost or leaf mold will get the tree off to a good start.
Is magnolia hardy in Zone 7?
The shade from the tree and accumulation of leaves prevents grass from growing, and as the leaves break down they provide nutrients for the tree. Most magnolia trees are hardy in USDA Zones 7 through 9; however, there are some cultivars that survive winters far north of zone 7.
How tall do magnolia trees grow?
These trees grow to a height of 80 feet (24 m.) tall with a spread of some 40 feet (12 m.). Southern magnolia facts suggest that the trees grow quite fast, shooting up some 12 to 24 inches (30.5-61 cm.) per year.
What color are magnolia flowers?
The petals grow in white or ivory and these cup-shaped blooms can grow to over a foot across! Those growing southern magnolia generally rave about the sweet delightful fragrance of the flowers. When the flowers fade, look for brown cones and bright red seeds .
What zone do magnolias grow in?
Southern magnolia facts tell you that they thrive in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 through 10. This means that gardeners in half the nation can cultivate them. On the other hand, you’ll want to find a location with deep, loamy or sandy soil that is acidic or at least pH neutral.
What is a magnolia tree?
Image by nickkurzenko. Southern magnolia ( Magnolia grandiflora) is a magnificent tree cultivated for its glossy, green leaves and lovely, white blossoms. Remarkably flexible for an outstanding ornamental, southern magnolia thrives not only in the South but also in the Pacific Northwest.
How big do magnolia leaves get?
The leaves are long and leathery, growing up to 10 inches (25.5 cm.) long.
Who is the magnolia tree named after?
Magnolias are named after French botanist Pierre Magnol. He spotted the trees and liked them so much that he brought some to Europe three centuries ago. Before you start growing southern magnolias, you need to realize that your slender saplings will mature into very large trees.
How to grow magnolia from cuttings?
Semi-hardwood leaf-tip cuttings of around 15cm in length can be taken in summer through to autumn. Dip in a propagating gel, place cuttings in small individual pots of propagating mix and keep moist but not wet in a cool spot.
What are magnolia trees used for?
A magnolia tree can be grown for many uses, including: solo, as a feature plant in gardens or pots. formal style, in rows. large hedge or screen. perfumed gardens.
What is dwarf magnolia?
The dwarf evergreen magnolia is as versatile as it is beautiful. It can be grown singly as a stunning feature plant in the garden or a pot , used en masse for planting along a path or driveway in a more formal style, planted closely together to form a large dense hedge, and even trained as large espaliers against a wall or fence. Its luxuriant glossy green foliage with its rusty-brown underside is reason enough to plant this tree, but the flowers are the icing on the cake. Large, pure white with a divine, sweet lemony fragrance, they are borne over a long period in the warmer months.
How tall is a magnolia tree?
The original parent plant, Magnolia grandiflora, is a truly enormous tree, easily reaching heights of 20m+ with a similar width. This species form is sold in nurseries, and when small does not look dramatically different to the cultivars, so make sure you check the label! The common cultivars have much more polite sizes.
How big does a magnolia get?
It has a relatively narrow form; when mature it will reach around 4m tall, with a width of around 2.5m. Healthy and happy specimens will be densely covered in foliage and naturally have a neat form.
How should I care for magnolias?
Care for the magnolia is relatively simple especially in warm weather climates. Choose a site with good drainage in full to part sun. Prior to planting shrubs and bushes, amend the soil with a leaf compost. Add several inches to the surface and cultivate into the soil to a depth of 8 to 10 inches. A balanced, slow release fertilizer may be added ...
How to grow magnolias in water?
grandiflora, will grow more prolifically with additional water. Dig a hole three times as wide as the root ball of the shrub and just deep enough for top of the ball to sit at surface level . Prepare the root ball by gently loosening roots and cut any ...
How long are magnolia leaves?
Keep up on removing leaf litter that will accumulate around the base of the magnolia shrub over the growing season. The often 10 inch long leaves of the magnolia are leathery and will not decompose quickly, causing an unsightly mess encircling your shrub.
How do I prepare a magnolia root ball?
Prepare the root ball by gently loosening roots and cut any that are circling the ball to ensure proper growth. Keep up on removing leaf litter that will accumulate around the base of the magnolia shrub over the growing season.
How much mulch should I use for magnolias?
Add up to 3 inches of organic mulch, such as pine bark, over the planting bed . Do not allow the mulch to come into contact with the trunk of the shrub, which may encourage disease. Water magnolias well after planting.
How tall is a magnolia tree?
Species can range from 15 foot tall, bushy specimens to 80 foot tall trees.
When should I prune a cane tree?
Pruning later in the season or early spring will remove buds that produce blossoms, resulting in a disappointing flowering season. Prune lightly for improved shape, by cutting back suckers that grow from ground level away from the main trunk. Cut back branch tips to encourage more blooms. Also remove diseased or dead canes.
Light
Water
- Magnolias need to be watered 1 - 2 times a week for the first 6 months after planting, until the roots are established. After that, they will only need water during periods of extreme drought. Ensure your tree is planted in well draining soil; only the Magnolia virginiana or Sweet Bay Magnolia is considered to be tolerant of wet soils.
Soil
- The best soil for magnolia trees is a well-drained, slightly acidic blend of organic matter. Amend your soil at planting to ensure balanced acidity and adequate drainage. Over time, you can use pine needles or other acidic components as mulch.
Food
- Magnolias rarely need fertilizers in order to thrive, especially when planting a variety native to your area. Perform a soil test periodically to see what the soil needs before fertilizing, in order to avoid overloading the soil with nitrogen or other elements. You may want to feed Magnolias with a balanced slow-release fertilizer such as Tree-Tone by Espoma in the late spring to promote healt…
Temperature
- Magnolias vary in type significantly, so some are more cold-hardy than others (such as the Edith Bogue). Typically Magnolias will grow between zones 4 and 9.
Toxicity
- Magnolia seeds and leaves are not considered toxic, but they are inedible. If your pet does ingest parts of a magnolia tree, observe for any signs of indigestion or discomfort and consult your vet.
Mulch
- Mulch the area around your magnolia tree's root system. Their shallow but forceful roots make it very difficult for other plants or lawns to share resources, so mulch can help hide any bare spots created by your magnolia. Organic hardwood mulch or pine needle mulch is best.