How big do magnolias grandiflora grow?
Magnolia grandiflora is a medium to large evergreen tree which may grow 120 ft (37 m) tall. It typically has a single stem (or trunk) and a pyramidal shape. The leaves are simple and broadly ovate, 12–20 cm (4+3⁄4–7+3⁄4 in) long and 6–12 cm (2+1⁄4–4+3⁄4 in) broad, with smooth margins. They are hardy, but prefer a sheltered spot and moist, well-drained soil. Some need slightly acidic or neutral conditions. Many magnolias are deciduous, losing their leaves over winter, but a few are evergreen, with dark glossy leaves all year round.On average, once a magnolia tree is established, you can expect it to grow about 1 to 2 feet per year. However, it’s important to note that magnolia trees might grow a bit slower during their first few years as they focus on developing a strong root system.Deciduous magnolias (those that drop their leaves in fall) are best planted when dormant, typically in late fall or winter in warmer climates and early spring in cold climates. Evergreen magnolias are best planted in early spring.Protecting Magnolia Tree in Winter Spread mulch around the base to protect the roots from cold temperatures. Young trees, especially those grown in areas prone to gusty winds, may benefit from being staked for the first year or two. You can wrap landscape fabric around the stakes to protect against chilly winds.Cons of Magnolias Shallow roots: Magnolias have shallow root systems, which can make them susceptible to damage from strong winds or nearby construction. Messy fallen leaves and flowers: Evergreen magnolias drop large glossy leaves year-round, while deciduous varieties shed both leaves and flowers in the fall.
Does magnolia grandiflora have invasive roots?
No, magnolia tree roots are generally not considered invasive in Australia. They have a fleshy, rope-like root system that tends to spread wide and shallow rather than deep and aggressive. The best type of plant to grow with Magnolia trees is any shrub, perennial or annual, that thrives in full to partial sunlight and prefers damp soil with an acidic pH, like Magnolia. Top contenders include Dogwood, Japanese Cherry, Hosta, and Sweet Flag.With so many beautiful flowering mature magnolia trees to choose from, you’re sure to find the right one to add a sweet bloom to your garden. Shop our selection of large magnolia trees for sale online and enjoy free shipping today!Some magnolias are small shrubs, perfect for adding interest to a mixed border or small garden. Others can grow to be tall trees, providing a commanding presence in a landscape.As a result, planting them too close to any structure can damage the root system. Determining how far from your home you should plant a magnolia tree is no easy feat. However, it’s best to measure about 50 feet away from your house to ensure you don’t run into trouble as the tree matures.There is quite a bit of variability as to how early a magnolia tree will bloom–especially if it was grown from seed. In most cases, it can take up to 5-10 years for a standard southern magnolia to bloom, and some can be 15-20 years before beginning to bloom.
What are the downsides of magnolia trees?
Slow growth: While Southern Magnolias are long-lived trees, they have a relatively slow growth rate, so it may take some time for them to reach their full size and maturity. Leaf litter: The tree sheds leaves throughout the year, resulting in leaf litter that needs to be regularly cleaned up. These trees typically need little care to survive winter, and proper planning ensures your trees will be healthy and loaded with flowers by spring. Magnolia trees are hardy in zones 4 through 9, so trees in zones 4 and below will need additional care to help them get through the winter.If you don’t have the right soil in your garden, or don’t have room for a large tree, the smaller magnolias grow well in pots. Magnolias need a sheltered spot, away from strong winds. Avoid frost pockets, as frost can damage the flowers in spring. A spot that gets plenty of sun will ensure a good display of flowers.Common Problems Improper Watering: Both over and under-watering can stress magnolias, leading to yellow leaves or leaf drop. Ensure the tree receives consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Poor Soil Conditions: Magnolias prefer slightly acidic, well-draining soil. Poor soil conditions can hinder growth.How Often & How Much Water Do Magnolias Need? For garden-grown Magnolias, water deeply until the plant is established (this generally takes a year), keeping the soil moist but not wet. For pot-grown Magnolias, check soil moisture every day (especially during hot weather) and water when the soil starts to dry out.A balanced fertilizer, e. Magnolia trees need. For ease of application, select a slow-release product to apply once in the spring. If your mature tree has not bloomed recently, use a fertilizer with increased phosphorus, which is the middle number in the ratio.
What is the lifespan of a magnolia tree?
It is thought that most southern magnolia trees (Magnolia grandiflora) have a life-span of 80-120 years, although the oldest tree on record is 320 years old in Italy. Also, in 2017, an old historic southern magnolia tree was removed from the White House that was about 190 years old. Wherever you plant, make sure the tree is 15-20 feet away from any obstructions (your home included). Southern Magnolias have pretty expansive root balls, and they need adequate growing room to accommodate them.Magnolias grow quickly, reaching heights of 20 feet or more in just a few years. However, they can also be slow-growing if not given proper care and attention. Different varieties of magnolia trees growth more quickly or slowly to their max heights.Magnolia grandiflora tolerates hard pruning, can be trimmed to shape or trained against a vertical surface. Or simply grow as a free-standing tree where it will ultimately reach a height of around 10m.Newly planted Magnolia trees need water two to three times per week. Drench the soil around the tree to saturate the entire root ball. Young trees need a consistent water schedule for the first one to two growing seasons. Established Magnolia trees need water weekly.
Where is the best place to plant a magnolia tree?
Most magnolia trees do best in full sun, with at least 8 hours of direct sunlight. In more southern grow zones, some varieties can tolerate some afternoon shade. Magnolias are full sun to part shade lovers, meaning they thrive best in bright, direct sunlight for at least part of the day, but they can also tolerate some shade.Magnolias prefer a spot in the garden that receives full sun to light shade. That said, if you live in a particularly warm or dry climate, your magnolia might benefit from a location shaded from the hot afternoon sun.Planting Magnolias in containers enables you to enjoy them in even more areas, like decks, balconies, and outdoor entertaining areas. A container may make it possible to enjoy a Magnolia tree if you simply don’t have the space in your yard.While some Magnolias can be large shrubs or trees that could swallow up the average garden, there are quite a few Magnolia cultivars of smaller stature that would fit small yards.Star magnolia does best when planted in moist, organic, acid soil in full sun but it is relatively adaptable. If possible, plant in a protected area to prevent buds from opening early and then being killed by a late frost or freeze.