How to Use Azalea Fertilizer on Magnolia Trees

Magnolia trees and Azaleas require acidic fertilizers.

Magnolia trees and azaleas are very similar in the types and levels of nutrients they require, and both prefer highly acidic soils. For this reason, gardeners often can treat the plants the same with regard to feeding. A fertilizer labeled for use on azaleas can be used to fertilize magnolia trees. In addition to magnolia trees, azalea fertilizer works with holly bushes, dogwood trees and hydrangeas.

Things You'll Need

• Slow-release granular Azalea fertilizer

Instructions

1. Fertilize in late spring, when the magnolia tree has finished blooming for the year. Wait until late May before applying the first fertilizer if the magnolia is a late-blooming variety.

2. Spread a slow-release, granular azalea fertilizer on the ground underneath the magnolia tree. Follow label instructions for application details. Extend the fertilizer outward until reaching the length of the longest tree branch.

3. Saturate the soil around the magnolia tree with water to help partially dissolve the fertilizer granules and soak the nutrients into the soil near the tree's roots.

4. Apply a second application of fertilizer in late June for all varieties of magnolia trees.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose an azalea fertilizer that has almost equal parts nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium for the best results.

References

• Hort-Pro Online Magazine: Magnolias
• University of Minnesota: Magnolias for Minnesota