Magnolia trees are a lovely addition to any space. They introduce sweet-smelling flowers with hints of citrus and decadent glossy foliage. Planting Magnolias in containers enables you to enjoy them in even more areas, like decks, balconies, and outdoor entertaining areas. A container may make it possible to enjoy a Magnolia tree if you simply don’t have the space in your yard. Another perk of growing Magnolia trees in containers is that you can enjoy them in areas outside of their growing zones.
Photo by Leonora (Ellie) Enking, unedited, Flickr, Copyright CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED
Planting Magnolia Tree in Pots
Magnolia trees can be evergreen or deciduous. Typically, evergreen varieties should be planted in early spring. Deciduous varieties grown in northern climates should be planted in the spring or during fall in the southern reaches of their growing range. Stick to this schedule if you intend to leave the plant outdoors during winter. Timing is flexible if you plan to relocate the tree to a protected indoor area in winter.
When planting Magnolias in containers, select a pot two inches larger than the root ball. Try to find a container that is more wide than deep because Magnolias have shallow roots that spread out rather than down. The container must have drainage holes. Select from materials such as glazed ceramic, plastic, or fiberglass. Porous materials like unglazed ceramic or terra cotta allow water to evaporate more quickly. Magnolia trees can grow in containers made from these materials but will need water more often.
Best Soil For Magnolia Tree in Pots
Well-draining soil is vital for growing Magnolia trees in pots. The soil should have increased organic content and an acidic pH. Avoid placing rocks or anything at the bottom of the container, which may block drainage holes and prevent excess water from seeping through. Top dress the container with a layer of organic mulch to provide some added nutrition and retain moisture.
Caring For Magnolia Tree in Planters
Evergreen Magnolia trees need full sun, so situate the container in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight. Deciduous Magnolia trees need partial shade, with 4 to 6 hours of daylight. If you notice sunburnt foliage, move the plant into more shade; leggy plants with few blooms usually need more sunlight.
Watering Magnolia Tree in Pots
Water potted Magnolias when the top few inches of potting mix are dry. Drench the soil until excess water drains through the container. Magnolia trees like damp conditions, and depending on rainfall, the trees may need water as often as daily. These trees can handle some dryness but expect more prolific blooming when the trees stay adequately hydrated. Magnolia trees can be overwatered, so do not water when the top layer of potting soil is wet.
Photo by Megan Hansen, unedited, Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED
Fertilizing Magnolia Tree in Pots
Rich potting soil with high organic content is enough to support container-grown Magnolia trees. A layer of organic mulch provides additional nutritional benefits. Fertilizing is not required but will help keep the tree lush and healthy. Apply a balanced fertilizer annually in the spring. One dose of fertilizer is sufficient for landscape plants, but container plants can benefit from a second fertilizer application around midsummer. Frequent watering depletes potting soil of nutrients, and older soil should either be replenished or amended with organic matter.
Winter Care For Magnolia Tree in Pots
Deciduous Magnolia trees in pots do not need much preparation for winter. Trees in the warmer reaches of the growing range can often stay in place, unless you prefer to move them for aesthetic purposes. Containers do not offer the roots the same protection against freezing temperatures as the ground soil does. If freezing temperatures are likely, relocate container plants to a protected area out of the elements. A shed, garage, or basement is often suitable.
Evergreen Magnolias need to be moved to a protected area in regions with cold winter weather. The entire tree, not just the roots, needs protection. Magnolia trees are dormant during the winter and do not need supplemental water unless natural precipitation is not accessible (e.g. due to an eave or overhang).
Growing Magnolia Tree Indoors
Evergreen Magnolia trees can be grown indoors during the winter. These trees need plenty of sunlight, which is lacking indoors and will likely keep the tree from blooming. If the tree requires winter protection, bring it indoors when temperatures turn cold. Situate it in a sunny window and water it when the top few inches of the potting mix are dry. Deciduous Magnolia trees drop their foliage and do not make attractive houseplants, but they can be overwintered in a cool indoor space until temps warm in the spring.