Introduction

The magnolia tree is a beautiful and unique addition to any garden or yard. With its large, showy flowers and glossy, green leaves, it is no wonder that so many people choose to plant them in their landscaping. However, planting around a magnolia tree can be a bit tricky. In this article, we will discuss what plants are best suited to grow around a magnolia tree, and how to care for them once they are planted.

Considerations when planting around a magnolia tree

When planting around a magnolia tree, it is important to keep a few things in mind. Firstly, magnolia trees have shallow roots, which means they are sensitive to any digging or disturbance around their roots. Therefore, it is best to avoid planting anything too close to the tree's trunk, and instead focus on planting around the dripline of the tree (the area underneath the outermost branches where rainwater drips off). Secondly, magnolias prefer well-drained, acidic soil, so be sure to choose plants that can thrive in these conditions.

Best plants to plant around a magnolia tree

1. Azaleas - Azaleas are a popular choice for planting around magnolia trees, as they both prefer acidic soil conditions. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, so you can choose the perfect type to complement your magnolia tree.

2. Hostas - Hostas are great for filling in the gaps between a magnolia tree's branches. They are shade-loving plants that come in a variety of foliage colors and shapes, making them a versatile addition to any garden.

3. Creeping phlox - Creeping phlox is a low-growing ground cover that will create a beautiful carpet of color around your magnolia tree. It is also tolerant of acidic soil, making it a great choice for this particular planting location.

4. Ferns - Ferns are perfect for providing a naturalistic backdrop to your magnolia tree. They thrive in shade and moist soil, making them a great match for the conditions under a magnolia's canopy.

Other tips for planting around a magnolia tree

- Avoid planting any plants with invasive roots around magnolias, as the tree's shallow roots can be easily damaged by aggressive plants.

- Choose plants that will complement the magnolia's overall look and feel.

- Be mindful of the amount of sun exposure each plant will receive, as too much direct sunlight can be harmful to some shade-loving plants.

Caring for plants around a magnolia tree

Once you have chosen and planted the perfect plants around your magnolia tree, it is important to care for them properly. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

- Water plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.

- Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to help regulate moisture and prevent weeds.

- Fertilize plants once or twice a year with a slow-release, acid-loving fertilizer.

- Prune any dead or damaged branches from your magnolia tree to prevent them from falling and damaging other plants below.

Conclusion

By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and healthy garden around your magnolia tree. Just remember to choose plants that are suited to the tree's shallow roots and acidic soil, and to care for them properly once they are planted. With a little bit of effort, you can create a stunning landscape that will bring you joy for years to come.