Saucer Magnolia Care Guide

Getting Started with Your 2.5" Plants

Your plants arrive in small 2.5" pots, so they have limited root space and will dry out quickly. Water them promptly on arrival, keep them out of harsh afternoon sun and strong wind at first, and plan to transplant them into larger pots (such as 1-gallon containers) or a protected garden bed once they have settled in and begun to grow.

Watering

Keep the soil consistently moist while your plants are becoming established. Small pots can dry out within a day or two in hot or windy weather, so check them often. After planting, water deeply and regularly until the root system becomes established. Magnolias prefer evenly moist soil but do not tolerate waterlogged ground. A layer of mulch around the root zone can help conserve moisture and moderate soil temperatures.

Sunlight

Saucer Magnolia performs best in full sun to partial shade. Full sun (6 or more hours daily) encourages the heaviest flowering, while young plants benefit from some protection from intense afternoon sun and wind while they establish.

Soil

Plant in fertile, moist, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Saucer Magnolia tolerates a range of soil types, but very alkaline soils can cause yellowing of the leaves, so amend if needed.

Fertilizing

Saucer Magnolia generally does not require heavy fertilization. Once established, if additional nutrients are needed, use a balanced fertilizer formulated for acid-loving trees and shrubs in early spring and follow the manufacturer's application instructions.

Pruning

Little pruning is needed. Allow your young plants to establish, then prune only as needed to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. If shaping is desired, prune right after flowering to avoid removing next year's flower buds.

Frost Protection

Because the flowers open early, before the leaves appear, they can be damaged by late spring frosts. Planting in a location sheltered from cold winds, and avoiding low spots where frost settles, can help protect the blooms.