How to Care for Magnolia Trees

Magnolias produce large flowers in spring and early summer, then provide shade for the rest of the warm months. There are many varieties of these trees, including hardy deciduous types that survive in areas with cold climates. Evergreen magnolias only grow in warm climates that rarely experience freezing temperatures. Once established, the magnolia requires only minimal maintenance as long as it was properly cared for during its first few years.

Mulch

Fertilizer

Pruning saw

Plant magnolia trees in a location where they receive full sunlight throughout spring and summer but are protected from high winds. Avoid overly wet or dry soils. Magnolias grow best in moist soil that's rich in organic matter.

Spread a 3-inch layer of mulch over the soil beneath the magnolia, covering a 3- to 5-foot diameter circle around the trunk of the tree. Leave a 3-inch space between the mulch and the trunk.

Water newly planted magnolias once weekly during the first spring and summer. Thoroughly soak the soil at the base of the tree to a 10-inch depth. Reduce watering to once every 10 to 12 days in the second and third year. Once established, water during extended dry periods when the soil begins to dry out.

Fertilize magnolias each spring when the leaves begin growing in. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer at the rate recommended on the package for your tree size.

Prune out dead and damaged branches in spring once the tree begins to leaf out. Cut these branches off where they join healthy wood. Cut out water sprouts, which are quick growing branches that grow vertically up from the horizontal branches, in late spring or early summer after flowering completes.

Replenish the mulch layer each spring to maintain the 3-inch depth. If your area experiences frequent freeze and thaw cycles throughout winter, build up a 4- to 5-inch mulch layer in fall to prevent the soil from heaving and damaging the roots.