Lawn Guardian

Saucer Magnolia Care Guide

Magnolia x soulangeana

treeZones 4–9deer resistant

Showy deciduous magnolia with large pink-purple goblet-shaped flowers appearing before leaves in early spring. A compact specimen tree for smaller landscapes.

At a glance

Season-by-season care

Spring

Protect blooms from late frost During bloom period

Cover tree with burlap if late frost is forecast during bloom. Frozen blooms turn brown and drop.

Prune after flowering only Right after bloom

Shape tree immediately after flowering ends. Magnolias bloom on old wood so later pruning removes next year's buds.

Summer

Maintain mulch ring As needed

Keep 3-4 inch mulch ring to protect shallow roots. Magnolias do not tolerate root disturbance.

Fall

Do not disturb root zone Fall reminder

Avoid planting bulbs or other plants near magnolia roots. Shallow roots are easily damaged.

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Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns