sweet bay magnolia

Sweet bay magnolias prefer consistently moist, but not soggy, soil, so water your magnolia regularly and deeply. Aim to keep the soil moist a couple of inches below the surface. Watering once or twice a week should be enough in times of regular rainfall. During more extended stretches of hot, dry weather water more frequently. As the soil begins to dry out, water until the soil is very wet, but not saturated. Allow the top inch or 2 of soil to dry out before watering again.

The sweet bay magnolia (Magnolia virginiana) does best in full sun to partial shade, meaning it should receive a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If the climate is hot, it may be beneficial to provide some afternoon shade to prevent leaf burn. Sweet bay magnolia is capable of tolerating full shade, but this may decrease flowering and growth rate. Therefore, it is best to provide at least 6 hours of direct sun for optimal growth and flowering.

The sweet bay magnolia is an ornamental, flowering evergreen tree that makes for a great addition to any landscape. Pruning of this species is recommended in the early spring, before new growth appears. Pruning should be moderate and done with sharp pruning shears, leaving a bare minimum on the tree. Care should be taken to remove dead and damaged branches at their point of origin to preserve the natural shape of the tree. If only light thinning or shaping is desired, then pruning can be done anytime during the growing season. Heavy pruning is discouraged as it could disrupt the natural shape and bloom of the tree.