Southern Magnolia Tree

Known for its large fragrant flowers, the Southern Magnolia tree (Magnolia grandiflora) is native to the southern states of the United States from Virginia to Florida all the way to Arkansas and Texas. Growing all throughout Mississippi, this tree has been titled as the State tree of Mississippi. This magnificent, broad-leaved evergreen tree with low-branches can attain a height of 60-80 feet and a width of 30-50 feet. This tree features lovely waxy, tropical-looking, 8-inch large leaves, white and fragrant flowers and 3-4 inch long (in spring and summer), cone-shaped fruits. There are several different varieties of this tree, with some forming dense pyramidal shapes, while others featuring large gaps between two branches.

Planting a Southern Magnolia Tree

Valued for its glorious white flowers, the Magnolia tree add a tender and warm touch to the garden, which is why so many people are lured towards this tree. One can plant the tree, however, there are a few points that need to be taken into consideration such as:

Space, Light and Soil
Although its growth rate is moderate, we need to be prepared to receive a large tree towering up to 80 feet with a width of 30-50 feet. If your garden does not have this much empty space you can consider getting the dwarf Southern Magnolia tree variety. Moreover, since the tree requires at least 5 hours of exposure to sunlight, thus, ensure that this requirement is compulsorily met. Woodland shade should also be available to prevent rain and wind from damaging the flowers and fruits of this tree. The soil should be well drained with a pH of 4.5 to 6.5.

Digging, Mulching and Positioning
With the help of a shovel dig a ditch that is twice the width and depth of the young Magnolia's root ball. Make sure all stones, weeds and other unwanted materials are removed from the soil. You can do this easily with a garden spade. Next, fill mulch into the dug hole to a height of 4 inches. Hold the root ball on top of the mulch layer and hold it at the center. Fill the region surrounding the root ball with loose soil and pack it well, such that the upper roots of the tree will be at ground level. Tamp around the tree base. The root ball is now positioned properly.

Securing and Watering
There is the danger of snapping and breaking due to strong winds, it is important to secure the sapling with the help of stakes. Stakes hammered into the ground are used to provide support to the young sapling. The sapling is tied to the stake with a strong string and this way the sapling stands firm. Add another 4 inches of mulch and adequately water the newly planting sapling. For the next 3 months the sapling has to be well watered, after which watering is required only during seasons of drought. Add light fertilizer. For the first three growing seasons frequent applications of fertilizers is required.

Pruning
Just planting the tree is not enough, proper care is required for the tree to flourish and grow. Pruning needs to be carried out to keep the tree in good health. The tree naturally grows in a pyramidal shape, which is why minimal pruning is required. Spring is the time when new growth is seen on the tree, which is why the best time to prune them is early spring, before the new growth comes about. Some branches need to be removed to attain the desired shape of the tree, however, it is important to not injure the tree or neighboring branches while doing so. Sharp tools need to be used for pruning and extreme care should be taken to avoid damaging or crushing branches.

Although a Southern Magnolia tree adds a mystical and romantic touch to one's garden, it's a large source of leaf litter. So brace yourself for a lot of raking! However, the effort is worth it!