Magnolia Three Sisters (stellata, soulangeana, Susan)

The Magnolia Three Sisters prefers sheltered situations, sunny to semi-shaded exposures, a moist, well-drained, fertile and humus-rich, deep, neutral to acid soil. It tolerates clayey soils that are not waterlogged. However, it does not tolerate limestone, poor and dry soils, or windy locations. With good hardiness (down to -20°C (1°F)), it is essential to protect young subjects from frost in the first years following planting. Note that late frosts and cold winds can damage flower buds and young leaves, thus affecting flowering.

Planting the Magnolia can be done in spring or autumn, outside the frost period, ensuring it is protected from cold winds. Prepare a hole 80cm (32in) on each side and the same depth, with a good supply of ericaceous soil and compost. Take care when placing it in the hole, so as not to break the fleshy but fragile roots. Immediate watering with non-limestone water (rainwater) helps to settle the soil around the roots. During the first year of planting, the Magnolia requires watering once a week. It will appreciate a mulch once a year in spring. For planting in limestone soil, it is advisable to replace your soil with well-rotted compost, leafmould, and ericaceous soil. For better tree establishment, do not choose plants that are too large (1.50m (5ft) is a good size). Staking may be necessary if the tree is a large specimen. Water generously in the first years. As Magnolias do not like prolonged drought, the soil should remain slightly moist (but not waterlogged) throughout the summer. It is recommended to mulch the base to retain moisture during the hot season, enrich the soil, and protect it from the cold in winter.

During the first years, pruning after flowering can be done to shape its silhouette. The growth of this tree is slow in the first years following planting. It will be well-established after 4 to 5 years, its growth will accelerate, and pruning will no longer be necessary, except to remove dead wood and rebalance its habit. Since its roots are fragile, it is best to avoid transplanting it. The only enemies of the Magnolia are pests such as scale insects, snails, and slugs that attack young plants, as well as diseases such as root rot (in overly waterlogged soil), coral disease, and fungal diseases.