
How to grow magnolias
Magnolias are a must have in the garden as they are super versatile and offer something new every season. Whether you’re planting one or have an existing tree, looking after them is Easy As.
Magnolias are a must have in the garden as they are super versatile and offer something new every season. Whether you’re planting one or have an existing tree, looking after them is Easy As.
Magnolias are a must have in the garden as they are super versatile and offer something new every season. Whether you’re planting one or have an existing tree, looking after them is Easy As.
When it comes to plant type, there is something for every situation. Large trees can grow to up to 7m high to 5m wide, making them great features. While smaller varieties can be used as hedging or can be grown in pots.
Smaller types reach about 2m in height with the main difference being how their flowers look. Take your pick from deep magenta or cerise, through to rosy pinks and whites. Theres a wide range of types and colours available below:
These large trees (4m x 2.5m - 3.5m) are known for their large fragrant tulip-shaped flowers. The main varieties are:
This plant produces magnificent large pure white fragrant bell-shaped flowers in spring. It grows up to 5m high to a width of 4m, and flowers from an early age.
Magnolias are best planted in late winter to early spring. This is also when the widest choices are available in-store.
A sunny position is best, although they will tolerate light shade. They are hardy but avoid windy spots if you want to enjoy their flowers. Magnolias don’t like to be moved as it damages their fleshy roots and they struggle to recover, so choose your spot carefully. Make sure you choose the right plant type for your location, as they can grow to be quite big.
They can be planted in the lawn, in a large pot or container, or in the back of your garden beds.
They prefer a slightly acidic soil, so avoid using lime. However they will do well in any good free-draining soil.
Magnolias are available to purchase during autumn and spring. You may find them grown in two ways: open grown in bags with loose soil or container grown, which are usually the large specimens and small trees.
When planting, be sure to cut any roots that are circling the root ball. Magnolias have a tendency to girdle (or become rootbound) if the roots aren’t spread out. This is especially important in container grown magnolias. If they have been open grown the plant may not have many roots, don’t worry they will establish as soon as you have planted them.
Water a couple of times a week in the first few years, especially over the summer months, but once established they can tolerate a moderate drought.
You don’t need to fertilise your new plant until the next growing season, which is in autumn. Then feed with an acid food monthly across autumn and winter for the first 3 years.
Magnolias need minimal pruning, and you only really need to prune for shape. This is best done just after flowering as they flower on the previous year’s growth.
Use pruning paste to seal any large cuts and if you want to put the flowers in a vase, cut back to the base of the branch. That will give you a tidier look and protect against die back.
Pest and diseases rarely affect the tree and any problems are more likely due to unsuitable conditions.
Magnolias are susceptible to bark damage and breakage, so avoid hitting them with a line trimmer or lawn mower.
If you’re worried, come and see us in store.