saucer magnolia

This species of plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and thrives in full sun to partial shade. When it comes to watering a Magnolia soulangeana ‘Alexandrina’, it should be watered deeply whenever the top 1 to 2 inches of soil becomes dry. When the tree is young, it may need to be watered more frequently to keep the soil moist. During times of high heat, water may need to be provided more frequently. Mature trees typically need about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or supplemental irrigation. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and other fungal issues.

Saucer magnolias (Magnolia soulangeana 'Alexandrina') grow best in partial shade or bright dappled shade and should receive at least 4-5 hours of direct sunlight per day. They prefer morning sun to avoid leaf scorch in hot afternoon sun. If grown in full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight), the leaves may yellow and drop prematurely. Plants grown in too much shade may produce fewer flowers and have a poorer overall performance.

Pruning for a saucer magnolia (Magnolia soulangeana 'Alexandrina') tree should be done annually and should take place in late winter, after the final frost. It is important to wait until the final frost because pruning in the wrong season can prevent new buds from forming. When pruning saucer magnolia, start by removing weak, diseased, or dead wood. Trim off any crossed branches or shoots growing inwards toward the center of the tree. It's also important to thin out old and overcrowded branches to improve light and air circulation within the canopy. Do not reduce the size of the canopy, as this may cause the tree to become lopsided or distorted. Lastly, it is important to shape the canopy by removing branches that are growing lower than the desired height.