How To Plant Magnolia Trees

The magnolia is a popular species of tree that is known for its shiny, dark green leaves and large fragrant blooms in the summertime. Approximately eighty different species of magnolia exist—some are deciduous, and others are evergreen—and almost all are easy to grow. Of the evergreen varieties that commonly grown, perhaps the most well-known is the stately Southern magnolia, or Magnolia grandiflora, a tree that can reach a height of 60 to 90 feet at maturity. In the northern areas of the United States magnolias should be planted in the spring, while fall is the best time to plant these trees in the south.

Step 1

Purchase a magnolia tree. Local nurseries and garden centers sell the magnolia trees that grow best in your area. Make sure that the tree selected will not outgrow its original planting location, because magnolias do not like to be transplanted once they become large.

Step 2

Dig a hole twice as large as the root ball.

Step 3

Take the young magnolia tree out of its container and place in the hole. Arrange the tree so that the root ball rests slightly above the adjacent ground. Fill with top soil.

Step 4

Water the magnolia thoroughly.

Step 5

Apply three to four inches of organic mulch, but leave the slightly elevated root ball uncovered. Mulch can prevent water from reaching the root ball, so leave it uncovered until the magnolia tree becomes established.