Whether your favorite magnolia variety eventually grows into a tree or a bushy shrub, many of them can reach heights of several feet. If that’s the case, they aren’t going to be happy living in a pot. That’s why the first—and most important—step is picking the right variety for container gardening.
It’s Not Just About Size
While the height and spread of a magnolia are big factors, you also have to think about your local climate. Out of more than 200 magnolia species, only about 100 are hardy enough to handle typical temperate winters. Any varieties that aren’t cold-hardy should definitely be kept in containers so they can be moved to a protected spot when the frost hits, rather than being planted directly in the garden.
A Little Extra TLC
Keep in mind that potted magnolias are a bit more high-maintenance than their cousins planted in the ground. The most important thing is to choose a pot with a wide diameter. It doesn’t actually need to be super deep, because magnolias are shallow-rooted plants—their roots prefer to spread out sideways rather than dive deep into the soil.
Because those roots stay near the surface, the soil can dry out quickly in warm weather, so you’ll need to keep it consistently moist. On the flip side, you have to make sure the pot has great drainage to avoid standing water, which can lead to diseases or root rot.
Choosing the Right Variety and Keeping it Fed
If you’re looking for dwarf varieties that thrive in pots, the Star Magnolia (reaching about 5 feet) and the Lily Magnolia (which tops out around 10 feet) are fantastic choices. Along with regular watering, remember that container-grown magnolias need a steady supply of fertilizer to stay healthy and vibrant.
To sum it up, here’s what you need for a successful potted magnolia:
- Pick a dwarf or slow-growing variety
- Use a wide planting container
- Stay on top of watering and fertilizing
