How to Plant a Saucer Magnolia Tree

The saucer magnolia (Magnolia x soulangeana) is a stunning tree that flaunts bold pink or purple flowers in early spring. With proper planting and care, this tree can live for several decades and provide a striking focal point in your garden.

Choose the Right Spot

To plant saucer magnolia, you need a sunny location with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clayey, consider adding compost or planting your magnolia in a raised bed. Avoid planting your tree in low-lying areas or sites that are prone to flooding, as excess moisture can harm the roots.

Prepare the Soil

Before planting your saucer magnolia tree, you need to prepare the soil properly. Start by digging a hole that is three times as wide as the root ball but only as deep as the container or root system. Use a shovel or garden fork to loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole, but avoid breaking up the compacted layers. Add a layer of compost or well-rotted manure to the bottom of the hole and mix it with the soil to enrich it.

Plant Your Tree

Take your saucer magnolia tree out of the container or burlap bag and loosen the roots gently with your fingers. Place the root ball in the center of the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole with the soil you removed, tamping it gently with your foot as you go to eliminate air pockets. Water the tree deeply, and add more soil if necessary to level the ground.

Mulch the Area

Once you have planted your saucer magnolia tree, apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Use bark chips, straw, or shredded leaves, avoiding any kind of weed mat or plastic that can trap moisture and cause root rot. Keep the mulch at least 2 inches away from the trunk to prevent fungal diseases.

Water and Prune as Needed

After planting your saucer magnolia tree, water it deeply once a week for the first year, especially during hot or dry spells. Once the tree is established, you can water it less often, but deeply. Avoid overhead watering, as this can promote fungal diseases. Prune your saucer magnolia tree in late winter or early spring, before the new growth appears. Remove any damaged, diseased, or dead branches, and shape the tree as you desire.

Conclusion

Planting a saucer magnolia tree requires some preparation and care, but the results are worth it. By selecting the right spot, preparing the soil, planting the tree properly, mulching the area, and providing water and pruning as needed, you can enjoy the beauty and longevity of this remarkable tree.