Magnolia decision

Watch Reply
More
Mark unread Print Skip to new
greatswede Lincoln, CA(Zone 9b) Oct 23, 2006

In my back yard I have two different Magnolias. One is a Lily Magnolia (Magnolia liliiflora ‘Lil Ann) and the other a Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia soulangeana ‘Alexandria). These trees were planted about 8 months ago. This last summer saw temperatures around 116°F. These trees get western sun. The Lily Magnolia suffered from the heat and had a few burnt leaves. The Saucer Magnolia had a lot of burnt leaves and the rest were chewed on almost down to the branch. They are about 20 feet apart and both are in poor draining clay soil.

Should I give up on both of them and replace with something else? Or is there a spray for the Saucer Magnolia? I'm planting a fast growing shade tree next to the Lily Magnolia.

Below is a picture of the Saucer Magnolia.

What do you think is eating the Saucer Magnolia and not the Tulip?

This message was edited Oct 26, 2006 10:20 AM

Thumbnail by greatswede
Post #2844089
Quote
escambiaguy Atmore, AL(Zone 8b) Oct 24, 2006

I would think that your climate is too hot and dry for any Magnolia to thrive in. They usually like some humidity. If you really must have a Magnolia , I think partial shade would be best.

Post #2844498
Quote
undercover_owl Oregon City, OR(Zone 8b) Oct 24, 2006

Oh, yes, I would suggest you move them to partial shade.

Post #2844978
Quote
kman_blue (Zone 6b) Oct 24, 2006

I've planted several of the "little girl" hybrid Magnolias(hybrids between M. liliflora and M. stellata) in zone 9 California in full sun before, without problem. I even planted one in record 114F heat once, without problem. I think at least part of your problem is the fact they are still quite young and not fully established. I bet once they have a chance to grow more roots and become better established they'll do better for you. But I do agree some afternoon shade, at least late afternoon shade, would also help them out. Also, unless your clay soil is really horrible, I mean like nearly concrete, I wouldn't worry about it too much, since most of these Magnolias seem very adaptable to heavy clay soils.

Post #2846169
Quote
magnolialover Southern, WI(Zone 5a) Jan 05, 2007

I found this thread quite late, but was hoping you didn't give up on your Magnolias. Sometimes I have found that they take a season or two to really establish. Could you move them to a spot that has a bit more shade, or more protected from that hot, hot afternoon sun?
Since I love Magnolias as I do, I would not recommend giving up, either way. These are beautiful trees that will reward you for years with beautiful blooms.

Post #3054615
Quote

Post a Reply to this Thread

Please or sign up to post.
Back to Forum Homepage

More Trees, Shrubs and Conifers Threads

Go to all Trees, Shrubs and Conifers threads
BACK TO TOP