The Leaves on My Magnolia Tree Are Wilted

Magnolia trees produce majestic blossoms.

Different varieties of magnolia trees range from 15 to 80 feet tall. Magnolias are famous for large showy blossoms. Wilted magnolia leaves are not only unsightly, but also indicative of a problem with the tree.

Verticillium Wilt

Verticillium Wilt is a fungal disease that attacks magnolia trees from the roots up. Symptoms usually manifest themselves in late summer and include wilted leaves and slowed growth. Sometimes all the leaves on one branch will wilt at the same time. Though this disease cannot be cured, you can control most cases.

Leaf Scorch

Leaf scorch is an umbrella term for drought, nutrient imbalance, chemical injury and weak soil. The leaves on magnolia trees turn yellow and can wilt when it experiences internal and external trauma. Solutions, such as fertilizing, leaching the soil and proper watering, depend on the problem.

Considerations

Both under and over-watering magnolia trees causes its leaves to wilt. Because the symptoms for both conditions look the same, it is important to know when and how to water magnolias properly. Ask your local nursery about magnolia water needs in your specific USDA hardiness zone.

References

• University of Minnesota Dept. of Horticulture: Verticillium Wilt of Trees and Shrubs
• Missouri Botanical Garden: Drought and Water Stress
• Cornell University: Magnolia Leaf Scorch
• Cornell University: Magnolia Cultural Problems
• US National Arboretum: Magnolia Questions and Answers