Just 1000 years ago, the magnificent magnolia trees with their large, eye-catching flowers were reserved for the Chinese emperors. In the meantime, the beautiful, very early flowering plants are also at home in many of our gardens and parks. Especially in the first few years, a magnolia tree is quite sensitive to frost and strongly fluctuating weather conditions, but is otherwise quite easy to care for.
How often should the magnolia be watered?
Magnolias have a very high water requirement, which, as shallow roots, they cannot cover on their own, especially in the hot summer months. Therefore, you must ensure that the plant is kept constantly moist in summer. Even in winter, the magnolia should be watered from time to time, but only on frost-free days.
Does it make sense to mulch magnolias?
For the same reasons, it is advisable to mulch the magnolia tree in the root area, for example with a layer of bark mulch. Magnolias should never dry out.
When and how is the magnolia best fertilized?
Magnolias planted in the garden usually do not need to be fertilized as long as they are in nutrient-rich and humus-rich soil. Basically, it is sufficient to spread some finely chopped grass clippings or humus-rich compost in the root area in spring. If, on the other hand, the magnolia is in the bucket, regular fertilization with a fertilizer rich in minerals is essential.
When and how is a magnolia tree pruned?
Since magnolias grow very slowly, annual pruning is not necessary - on the contrary, it can even cause drastic damage. It is sufficient to carefully prune the magnolia tree every three to five years, whereby dead branches and twigs must of course be removed regularly. Coat the cut surfaces with a fungicide. As with all flowering trees, the best time to prune is when all the flowers have faded. This should be around the end of June. In order for the tree to recover from the intervention, you should refrain from pruning in the fall.
Do magnolias also thrive in pots?
Some types of magnolia, such as the purple magnolia or the rare, yellow-flowered Magnolia Daphne, are wonderfully suited to being kept in a container. The pot should be as wide as possible so that the flat roots of the plant have enough space to spread out. Potted magnolias must be watered and fertilized regularly, and in winter it is advisable to cover the pot with a warming fleece.
How can the magnolia be propagated?
Propagation is mainly via cuttings, sinkers or mosses. However, propagation by seeds is not recommended, as these magnolias are very lazy to bloom.
What diseases can occur in magnolias?
Magnolias are quite susceptible to both forms of powdery mildew. Black spots on the leaves indicate leaf spot disease.
What is the best way to overwinter magnolias?
The younger a magnolia tree is, the more sensitive it is to frost. You should therefore wrap the trunks of young trees that have been planted out with fleece and cover the root area with a thick layer of mulch (e.g. brushwood, bark mulch). Potted magnolias overwinter best under cold house conditions. Plants become more robust with age.
tips and tricks
If possible, only multiply your magnolia by cuttings or by removing moss, as cuttings are very difficult to root. For the same reason, the plant should also not be transplanted.