While you can certainly keep a magnolia in a pot on your balcony—and some varieties even make stunning bonsais—these beauties really belong in the garden. This is especially true for the types that eventually grow into full-sized trees.
Finding the Perfect Spot
If you want your magnolia to thrive, picking the right location is everything. Since magnolias are long-lived plants, you’ll want to choose a spot where they won’t interfere with any future landscaping projects. Sunlight needs can vary depending on the variety you choose; some crave full sun all day, while others prefer a bit of afternoon shade. One rule of thumb for all magnolias, though: try to find a spot that’s sheltered from harsh winds.
It’s All About Acidic Soil
Just as important as the light is the quality of your soil. Magnolias are shallow-rooted, meaning their roots spread out wide near the surface, so they really appreciate loose, airy soil. Most importantly, the soil needs to be nutrient-rich and have the right pH level. Ideally, you’re looking for a pH between 5.5 and 6.8. If your soil is too alkaline, don’t worry—you can easily fix it by mixing in some rhododendron soil or peat moss to increase the acidity.
How to Plant Your Magnolia
Whether you’re growing from seed, starting with cuttings, or you’ve just brought home a potted tree from the nursery, here is the best way to get it in the ground:
- Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball.
- Mix the soil you dug out with plenty of rhododendron soil.
- Place the root ball in the hole, making sure not to plant it too deep.
- Fill the rest of the hole back up with your soil mixture.
The best time to get your magnolia in the ground is during April or May. If you miss the spring window, early autumn is another great time to plant!
