The magnolias They occupy a special place in ornamental gardening thanks to the beauty and size of its flowers, their fragrance, and the botanical variety available. They are plants steeped in history and symbolism that have graced both small gardens and impressive parks for centuries. Learn how to plant magnolias in our garden and keeping them healthy will allow us to enjoy a visual spectacle every seasonTo expand your knowledge about different types of magnolias, you can visit our section on magnolia varieties and discover which one is best suited for your space.
What are magnolias and why choose them?
The magnolia is a genus of trees and shrubs of the Magnoliaceae family, with more than 200 known species originating mainly from Asia and North America. His success in gardening lies in his showy flowering –its petals can be white, pink, purple or yellow and give off a pleasant aroma– as well as its easy maintenance once established. Adult specimens can reach considerable heights, even up to 30 meters in species such as magnolia grandiflora, but there are compact varieties (M. stellata, M. liliiflora), ideal for small spaces or pot cultivation.
Main varieties and characteristics
- magnolia grandiflora: Imposing evergreen tree with large, fragrant white flowers. Can reach 30 meters.
- magnolia soulangean: Deciduous shrub or small tree, flowers in shades of pink and purple.
- Starry magnolia: Compact, white or pink starry flowers, perfect for small gardens and pots.
- magnolia lilifloraLily-shaped flowers, purple on the outside, lighter on the inside.
- magnolia kobus: Deciduous, with white flowers and a delicate fragrance. Ideal for temperate climates.
Choose the variety according to the available space and the climatic conditions of your area. Evergreen magnolias They usually develop larger specimens; the deciduous ones surprise with their spectacular flowering before the leaves come out, in late winter or spring.
Ideal conditions for planting magnolias
The success of magnolias begins with a correct location. These plants prefer sunny spaces or light semi-shadeA minimum of 4-6 hours of sunlight is ideal. In areas with very hot summers, shade is recommended during the hottest hours.
El soil must be acidic or slightly acidic, rich in organic matter and with good drainage. Magnolia roots are shallow and do not tolerate waterlogging or compact or sticky soils, especially during the winter. To improve soil conditions, we recommend reading our article on how to choose garden trees.
Avoid exposing magnolia to strong winds, as flowers and branches can break easily. If the soil is very calcareous, add organic matter periodically. To ensure optimal growth, Enrich the planting hole with leaf substrate or heather soil, add sand if it is very clayey and make sure that the space allows for the development of the adult tree or shrub.
Step-by-step process for planting magnolias
Planting magnolias requires some preparation:
- Best time: Spring and fall are the perfect times, avoiding extremes of heat or cold. In coastal areas or areas with temperate climates, planting is possible year-round.
- Soil preparation: Mix compost, peat, and sand to improve texture and provide nutrients. You can also check out our article on tips for planting tulips for other plant options that require good soil.
- Spacing: Allow sufficient distance between plants to allow for future growth; refer to the mature size of your variety.
- Planting technique: Dig a hole at least twice the width of the root ball. Place the plant at soil level, fill it in, and press it down to settle. Then water deeply and add a layer of organic mulch (pine, bark, or needles) to retain moisture and protect the roots.
Potted magnolias: specific care
Magnolias can thrive in large pots If you control two key factors: watering and fertilization. An automatic irrigation system or frequent checks during the summer will prevent dryness, the main enemy of a container magnolia. Use a substrate rich in peat and organic matter, and apply liquid fertilizer for acid-loving plants every six weeks from early spring to late summer, always after watering.
Germination and planting from seed
Planting magnolias from seed is a satisfying process for gardening enthusiasts:
- Harvest the berries after the blossoms have fallen, preferably in early autumn. Remove and clean the seeds promptly.
- Subject the seeds to cold stratification for at least three months, mixing them in moist sand and refrigerating in a sealed bag.
- At the end of this period, sow in spring in a pot or in the garden, protecting the seedlings from direct sunlight until they develop several leaves.
Development is slow, but watching a magnolia sprout and grow from seed is a unique process.
Irrigation, fertilization and maintenance
During the first year Watering should be frequent to maintain humidity. Afterwards, it can be adapted to deep weekly watering, increasing the frequency if the climate is dry. Avoid puddles to prevent rot.
Fertilize with balanced products for acid-loving plants in early spring. An annual organic mulch will strengthen moisture retention and improve nutrient delivery.
Pruning, transplanting and pests
Magnolia does not require intensive pruning.; limit yourself to removing dry, damaged, or crossing branches after flowering. Transplanting should be done during dormancy, usually in the fall, to reduce the impact on the plant. Monitor for pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and leaf mold, and apply specific fungicide or insecticide treatments if necessary.
The magnolia symbolizes purity, nobility and perseverance and is appreciated in multiple cultures. Planting magnolias is a long-term investment: these trees can live for hundreds of years. Their uses, in addition to ornamental purposes, include making flowers for infusions (do not consume the seeds, as they are toxic) and perfumes.
With enough care, You will enjoy the stunning flowers and greenery of your magnolia for generations., a true emblem of natural elegance in your garden or terrace.
