If you do everything right when planting, you will be rewarded with little effort and work in care. But what is the star magnolia fundamentally important to care for? Which procedures should be neglected?
How do you properly care for a star magnolia?
Star magnolia care includes regular watering with lime-free water, fertilizing with rhododendron or azalea fertilizer and minimal pruning. It is frost-resistant and not very susceptible to diseases and pests. Propagation is best done via cuttings or planters.
Do you have to water the star magnolia?
You should water the star magnolia especially in the first two years so that it can take root well. Please note the following:
- is a shallow rooter
- don't like dryness
- Keep soil moist
- water with lime-free water
- best to mulch
Which fertilizer is suitable and how often do you have to fertilize it?
Rhododendron or azalea fertilizer is wonderful for star magnolias. Compost and manure are also suitable for fertilizing. Outdoor plants should be fertilized generously in spring. The fertilizer is carefully raked into the soil. Plants in pots should be supplied with fertilizer every 4 weeks.
Does the star magnolia need pruning?
Severe pruning is not recommended. The growth of the star magnolia is naturally picturesque. A cut should only be made if it is too large. The branches are removed to the base. Otherwise the wood tends to develop ugly broom growth. The best time comes after flowering.
How can it be propagated?
It is best propagated via cuttings and planters. The propagation is similar to that of other trees. Sowing is difficult. The seeds should be subjected to a cold period immediately after they have ripened and then allowed to germinate.
Do you have to overwinter the star magnolia?
Wintering is unnecessary. The star magnolia is frost-resistant down to -23 °C. The exception is when it is in a bucket. Then it should be protected from freezing moisture. Attention: It is better to choose a shady location. There is less risk of late frost damage to the flowers.
Is the star magnolia susceptible to disease and pests?
The star magnolia is rarely attacked by diseases and pests. If yellowish to white or brown leaves appear, this is an indication of a nutrient deficiency. Diseases can often be identified by brown spots or holes on the leaves.
Tips & Tricks
Never prune your star magnolia between fall and spring. Then remove the flower shoots and the flower falls out.