Lawn Guardian

Southern Magnolia Care Guide

Magnolia grandiflora

treeZones 7–10nativedeer resistant

Iconic southern tree with large, glossy evergreen leaves and enormous fragrant white flowers up to 12 inches across. A stately specimen for large landscapes.

At a glance

Season-by-season care

Spring

Apply fertilizer Early spring

Apply slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. Magnolias prefer slightly acidic soil.

Summer

Water deeply during establishment During dry spells

Young magnolias need regular deep watering for first 2-3 years. Established trees are fairly drought tolerant.

Fall

Leave leaf litter Throughout fall

Allow fallen magnolia leaves to remain as natural mulch under the canopy. They suppress weeds and return nutrients to soil.

Ecological value

Provides year-round shelter for birds. Seeds are eaten by woodpeckers, mockingbirds, and squirrels. Flowers attract native pollinators including beetles (ancient pollination relationship).

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Related plants

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