Magnolia - Magnolia

The Magnolias bring an exotic, southern flair into our gardens and parks with their large, splendid flowers. The species indigenous to eastern Asia and North America are among the most splendid decorative plants. To enjoy them fully they regure some basic planting and care. 

Planting: 
The roots of all magnolias are fleshy, near the surface, and very sensitive to unprofessional treatment. Spring is the best time for planting. The planting hole has to be large enough for the root ball to fit. Magnolias are to be set down carefully as the roots break easily; the compacting that is usually done with other plants should not be done with them. Rather, they should be watered and covered with soil. Do not plant too deep, mulch the root base with bark chaff, no more than 5-8 cm deep. Do not dig around the roots. No soil compaction or paving! 


Demands: 
Magnolias love the sun, light shade is possible; although most species are frost hardy, they need frost and wind protection as the early flowers are sensitive to late frost. They are sensitive to dry air and soil and should be watered in dry spells. Magnolias thrive best on sandy-humic or sandy-loamy soil. They prefer acidic to neutral areas but nonetheless make do on alkaline soil if enough organic material is available (bark mulch). While producing the luxurious flowers, magnolias run out of energy and need organic fertilizers. 

Cutting: 
Do not cut magnolias; if they have become too wide, take off old wood carefully as the wood may break. The best time to do so is the end of July to mid-August. Cutting in spring would cause massive bleeding.