How to Grow and Care for Saucer Magnolia
A comprehensive look at the key considerations for establishing and sustaining a healthy saucer magnolia, leading to a reliable display of its famous blooms.
The saucer magnolia, or Magnolia × soulangeana, is a deciduous tree celebrated for its spring display. A hybrid of two Asian magnolia species, it produces large, goblet-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, and purple before its leaves emerge. Often grown as a multi-stemmed tree, it develops a broad, rounded canopy that can reach a height and spread of 20 to 25 feet. Its smooth, silver-gray bark provides visual interest throughout the year.
Planting Saucer Magnolias
Proper site selection is the first step for a healthy saucer magnolia. These trees flourish in locations that receive at least six hours of full sun daily, though they can adapt to partial shade. A spot sheltered from strong, cold winds is beneficial to protect the delicate blossoms from damage. Plant in the spring or fall to allow the root system to establish before summer heat or winter cold.
Saucer magnolias prefer moist, well-drained, and slightly acidic soil, and perform best in rich, loamy conditions. To plant, dig a hole twice the width of the root ball but no deeper, which allows the roots to spread easily. After placing the tree in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the surrounding ground, backfill with the excavated soil. Water thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
Essential Saucer Magnolia Care
Consistent moisture is important for a newly planted saucer magnolia during its first year. Young trees benefit from regular, deep watering that allows the soil to dry slightly between applications. Once established, the tree is tolerant of dry periods but will perform better with occasional deep watering during extended droughts. Applying a layer of organic mulch is a simple way to conserve soil moisture.
A 2 to 3-inch layer of mulch spread around the tree’s base helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth. Keep the mulch from directly touching the trunk to prevent moisture-related issues. Saucer magnolias are not heavy feeders, but if the soil is poor, a single application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring can support healthy growth.
Pruning Saucer Magnolias
Saucer magnolias require minimal pruning. The primary goal is to maintain the tree’s health and natural form, not to drastically alter its size or shape. Pruning should focus on removing branches that are dead, damaged, or diseased. It is also good practice to trim any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other, as this can create wounds on the bark.
Timing is the most important aspect of pruning this tree. All pruning should be done in late spring or early summer, immediately after the flowering period has concluded. Pruning too early in spring or in the fall risks removing flower buds that have already formed for the following year’s display. Waiting until after the blooms fade ensures the tree has time to develop new buds for the next season.
Common Problems
The most frequent issue affecting a saucer magnolia’s bloom is a late spring frost. Because the tree flowers so early, a sudden temperature drop after the buds have formed can damage or kill them, resulting in a sparse floral display. Placing the tree in a sheltered location can offer some protection against this.
Pests and diseases are not a major concern, but some issues can arise. Magnolia scale, which appears as small, waxy bumps on branches, can be managed with horticultural oil applied according to product directions. Fungal issues like leaf spot or powdery mildew may also occur in humid conditions. Maintaining good air circulation through proper pruning can help reduce the likelihood of fungal diseases.