How to Grow Magnolias in Pots and in the Garden

Plenty of water, especially in the early stages, sunny exposure, and maximum attention to slug attacks. The cultivation of splendid magnolias, which provide flowers Cream-colored, it's not difficult. It's a tree with beautiful, multi-colored flowers and an intense fragrance. No self-respecting garden should be without a magnolia tree, of which there are 80 known species worldwide: a unique spectacle, a true ode to the explosion of spring. It's also a tree that grows relatively slowly, reaching 3-4 meters in height, and can be grown in a pot without excessive complications. Belonging to the Magnoliaceae family, the magnolia is a plant of American origin: one of the first specimens cultivated in Europe is found in the botanical garden of Padua, where it was planted in the late 1700s.

Index of topics

Types of magnolia

There are approximately 80 known species of magnolia, of which the most widespread are:

Evergreen magnolia and magnolia grandiflora. These species can grow up to 20 meters tall, with bright green leaves and large white flowers.
Magnolia Delavayi. Typically American, with very green leaves and white flowers.
Deciduous magnolia. This is a species of magnolia native to Asia. This plant's characteristic feature is that it flowers first, in winter, when the tree is bare, and then produces leaves in spring.

When to plant

Easy to grow, it doesn't require any special care. Remember, however, that watering should be fairly generous for the first few years, then, as the plant grows, you can reduce the amount of water. The plant generally grows slowly; its flowers are quite large, consisting of 8-9 petals, while its leaves are oval. Let's look, step by step, at how to grow magnolias in the garden or in pots. If you decide to grow them from cuttings, the ideal month is July. As soon as roots develop, transplant them into 7-8 cm pots, and in spring, transplant them into pots. Planting in the garden in the open ground, however, should be done in early spring.

Land

First of all, remember that the magnolia plant must be placed in a sunny but sheltered area to prevent any sudden spring frosts from damaging it. The soil must be well-fertilized and well-drained. A word of advice: always choose natural fertilizers.

Watering

As mentioned, watering should be abundant during the plant's first years of life and during the summer. Water the plant only when the soil is dry. Then, as the plant gradually develops into a full-fledged tree, watering should be reduced. Avoid waterlogging at all costs.

Pruning

Generally, magnolias don't require pruning. After flowering, however, you can remove damaged or underdeveloped branches.

Flowering

The plant begins to produce its wonderful flowers only after a few years of growth: the flowering it generally manifests itself from March to September, depending on the variety. If the plant is growing in the garden, to protect the buds from possible spring frosts, choose a late-blooming variety. Also remember that magnolias take up a lot of space, so place them in a spot where they can grow and expand. Magnolia flowers, always large and showy, are cup-shaped, more or less closed. They are highly fragrant, with colors ranging from white to pink, from lilac-pink to purple. And some magnolias bloom even when they're still leafless.

Parasites

Magnolia is a plant very resistant, the greatest danger for the plant, during the flowering period, is constituted by possible attacks by slugs that feed on the buds. Other enemies of the magnolia are the cochineal and the red spider.

How to grow magnolia in a pot

Sowing should be done during the month of October: place the seeds in a tray and place it in a cool, dry place. The germination period can vary from 12 to 18 months. Once grown, transplant the seedlings into suitable pots. The pot should be large enough, about 50 cm, and should be placed in a sunny area, although not excessively so. Fertilization should be done once a year, during the autumn. Repotting should be done during the month of April.

How long does a magnolia take to grow?

Magnolia growth is not fast, but it all depends on the variety you choose. gardensIf space is abundant, the most common species is Magnolia grandiflora, an evergreen plant that can grow up to 25 meters tall. For balconies or even in pots, magnolias are recommended. Little according to that exceed three meters in height, but in no less than fifteen years of time.

How to grow magnolia