Between the beginning of April and the beginning of May, before the leaves emerge, the tulip magnolia (Magnolia soulangiana) delights with its large, white or light pink flowers. For he althy growth and beautiful, recurring flowers every year, this tree, which appears to be very primeval, requires good care.
How do you care for a tulip magnolia?
The tulip magnolia requires regular watering during the hot summer months, light fertilization in spring and protection from late frosts. It tolerates pruning poorly and is largely insensitive to diseases and pests.
Do you have to water the tulip magnolia regularly?
The tulip magnolia has shallow roots and is therefore always at risk of drying out, especially in the hot summer months. You should therefore water the tree regularly during this time - preferably in the early morning hours - but the leaves and flowers should not be wetted. So that the soil can retain moisture, mulching with grass clippings or leaves makes sense.
When and with what should you fertilize the tulip magnolia?
Fertilization is basically not necessary because the tulip magnolia does not have a particularly high nutrient requirement. It is enough to provide the tree with some ripe compost and peat in spring.
Can the tulip magnolia also be cultivated in a pot?
A young tulip magnolia can certainly be cultivated in a pot for a few years, but should be planted out at some point. The very slow-growing tree can be up to nine meters high and just as wide.
Can you cut the tulip magnolia? If yes, when and what should be specifically considered?
Like all magnolias, the tulip magnolias tolerate pruning very poorly, which is why it is best not to prune or only carried out when absolutely necessary.
What diseases/pests typically occur in the tulip magnolia?
Tulip magnolias are rarely attacked by pests or diseases. Specimens weakened by incorrect care or an unsuitable location can become infected with powdery mildew or leaf spot, or be attacked by scale insects or whiteflies.
Why do the flowers of the tulip magnolia turn brown and fall off?
Unfortunately, the tulip magnolia is very sensitive to late frosts, which is why you can protect the tree during the flowering period and when the leaves are emerging, especially at night with gardening fleece (€7.00 at Amazon). Frosted flowers turn brown and fall off.
Is the tulip magnolia hardy?
In the first few years, young tulip magnolias should receive light winter protection, later the tree is quite hardy.
Tip
Small magnolia species such as the star magnolia are better suited for pot cultivation.
