How to Care for Your Southern Magnolia tree

Southern magnolia trees produce showy, scented blossoms.

Southern magnolia, Magnolia grandiflora, is commonly called bull bay and evergreen magnolia. Native to coastal plain regions of the southeastern U.S., southern magnolia is a huge evergreen tree with big, thick shiny leaves that are dark green on top with silver or rust undersides. Massive, scented and showy white blossoms emerge on the branches of the southern magnolia from summer to fall. Adding one of these colossal beauties to your landscape requires planning and care.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Mulch
• Fertilizer
• Pruners

Instructions

1. Plant the southern magnolia tree in a site with partial shade and rich, acidic, well-drained soil. Choose a location with plenty of room for the fully grown magnolia tree, which typically is 60 to 90 feet tall with 40-foot spreads.

2. Break up the soil to a depth and width several times the size of the southern magnolia's root ball to prepare for the root system's growth. Put back enough soil in the hole before planting the tree to place the tree at the same depth it was previously growing. Add 1 or 2 inches of extra soil to allow for settling.

3. Add a 3- to 4-inch layer of mulch around the base of the southern magnolia. Do not put any mulch within at least 1 inch of the tree's trunk. Extend the mulch out to the diameter of the canopy of the tree, and replenish the mulch every year to maintain the depth.

4. Water the southern magnolia regularly for the first three to five years to allow the tree to become established. This is particular important during any extended hot and dry periods. Slowly water the tree to allow the water to reach a depth and width beyond the root system to encourage growth. The soil around the tree should never dry completely.

5. Start fertilizing the southern magnolia tree the second season after planting. Apply an acid-type fertilizer as directed in the spring and summer.

6. Trim a southern magnolia tree only as required to get rid of damaged, dead or sickly branches. The best time to prune magnolias is after the bloom period.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the fallen leaves from the magnolia tree as mulch.

References

• Floridata; Magnolia Grandiflora; Steve Christman; June 1997
• Mississippi Forestry Commission: The Southern Magnolia
• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Magnolia Grandiflora
• Arbor Day Foundation: Southern Magnolia