We add one more cultivation token in Gardenprue with the cultivation of Star Magnolia . We have before us a large whitish flowering shrub, which can be perfect for our garden. We are going to see all the necessary care for it to have a prosperous growth, as well as comments, initially, a little history and genre of this particular plant.
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TIPS ON GROWING MAGNOLIA STELLATA
One group of plants that captivates any gardener, expert or inexperienced, is the Magnoliaceae family and the Magnolia genus . All its plants, of ornamental application, have surprising blooms, with a great variety of colors, shapes and smells. Of course, Magnolia stellata is of great importance here .
Specifically, if we talk about Magnolia stellata , as we can see in the images, it has a large, very aromatic white flowering, so its success in the garden will be assured.
TALKING A LITTLE ABOUT THE MAGNOLIACEAE FAMILY
This family to which the star magnolia belongs, is divided into 2 genera . The sum of these two results in more than 225 different species, each with its specific characteristics.
In general, we can see these plants growing in large areas of Asia, as well as America, although this does not mean that it can be cultivated in other areas, such as in Europe (in the case of Spain). They are typical of humid and sandy areas of Latin American countries such as Colombia, Brazil or Central America.
STARRY MAGNOLIA
Although there are large magnolia trees , specifically the star magnolia is considered a shrub or a small tree. It does not grow more than 3 meters in height (normal is less), and it usually grows very slowly. It is something common in most specimens of the Magnoliaceae family , a fact that increases its ornamental value and the price of obtaining adult specimens in nurseries.
As for the cultivation of Magnolia stellata , we will see it from now on.
CLIMATIC CHARACTERISTICS OF THE STELLATE MAGNOLIA
We always like to see the origin and its propagation over time to try to know the adaptation process that plants have. In this case, as we have mentioned before, it is typical of tropical and temperate climates . It requires certain levels of humidity, lighting and heat. The intense cold is not good for him. In fact, it suffers quite a bit from frost . We will have to be careful with that.
One fact that must be taken into account is to arrange it in the garden in a sheltered place, or among other trees. Flowering weakens and falls if the wind is strong. There will be no problem if we make a good vegetation cover with leafy trees.
THE SOIL, SOURCE OF SUCCESS AND FAILURE
This family of plants has one thing in common when it comes to soil. its pH. The importance lies in achieving acidic soil values, either by means of acidifying agents that we have already commented on in the odd article.
What elements make the soil absorb hydrogen cations? Well, whatever it is, they acidify the soil and lower the pH value. We remember you from the article on changing the soil pH :
- White peat: has a pH between 4 and 5.5, so it is perfect to incorporate around the magnolia tree.
- Iron sulfate: in application of 2 to 4 grams per liter of water.
- Pine leaf mulch : these needles, when decomposed, acidify the soil and function as compost and mulch. Remember the importance of mulching.
- Sulfur: of course , sulfur is slowly transforming into sulfuric acid, with an acidic pH. It has the advantage that it has a very low cost. It is applied in quantities of 0.5 kg for each square meter.
Ok, but for this you have to progressively measure the pH of the soil. It is not worth adding huge amounts and waiting for the pH to drop. As with good cooking, it must be done slowly and progressively.
To check results, you can use this homemade system whose cost is very low (less than € 5) and gives quite reliable values (for that matter, it works). Here is the article.
More soil characteristics? Yes, the drain. Besides having acidic soil, Magnolia stellata needs the soil to drain water well. It is used to good watering, so that waterlogging can occur. We say goodbye to root suffocation with a good drainage of sand and substrate mix.
With regard to light, at first, in its young stage, it will be good for it not to be exposed to the continuous Sun, especially in summer. As it had to be protected from strong winds, the tree cover around it will allow it to grow in a semi-shady environment, perfect for the first years. In addition, this way it will conserve the humidity it needs much better.
IRRIGATION NEEDS
As for the water needs, provided with irrigation, we can say that it needs frequent water contributions. Water usage can be reduced with mulch (remember that pine needle mulch can be excellent for Magnolia stellata).
You have to flee from the dryness of the land and the hot days when it is not watered. Always controlling the humidity of the substrate, we will water periodically, increasing the amount and frequency with the arrival of heat.
Logically, in winter, we will shorten these waterings, respecting the rest of the plant.
COMPOST OR ORGANIC MATTER
Magnolia stellata requires moderately high subscriber needs. On the one hand, incorporation as a background fertilizer (before planting, well mixed with the soil), represents a great improvement in the transplanting of the magnolia tree. On the one hand, the physical properties of the soil are considerably improved, as well as the biological ones, and without any doubt, this increase in organic matter in the soil will facilitate the development of the roots.
The result? Presumably having a soil with acidic pH, good drainage, balanced moisture and optional mulches, great growth in its young stage. Remember, as an adult it grows slowly.
MAGNOLIA STELLATA MULTIPLICATION
If we had to make a list with the ease of the plant multiplication process, without a doubt, we would not place the magnolia tree among the top positions. Its preservation characteristics (temperatures above 0 ºC but below 5 ºC, preservation in sealed containers, subsequent stratification, etc.)
The multiplication by seed of magnolia trees (including Magnolia stellata ) is a challenge for any farmer who wants to obtain new plants through this method. Nor will it be suitable to keep the seeds in the open air, since when they dry they lose all their germination power. Yes, they are somewhat gibberish, but the result is impressive.
The stakes is a more commercial means, but also valid to obtain plants similar to the mother. Between spring and summer, not very woody wood cuttings can be selected, planted in a container with a mixture of sand and substrate and some element that facilitates rooting (gels or hormones that favor root development, because they carry nutrients that improve the ability to produce estate).