Magnolias are a gorgeous shrub with a wealth of stunning variations within the species.
They’re one of the most popular low-maintenance garden plants in the world, known for their eye catching blooms that range from wispy purple petals to broader white-petaled flowers. Best of all for gardeners with smaller outdoor spaces? Growing magnolias in pots is an easy and accessible option!
This piece will highlight why magnolias are one of the best options for growing in pots and containers, along with shining light on some of the most suitable varieties for smaller garden setups.
Why grow magnolias in pots?
Gardeners might choose pots instead of beds for several reasons, including:
- Limited space in a garden/living in an apartment where gardening is reserved for the balcony
- Preferring the aesthetic of their chosen magnolia in a pot standing alone, rather than amongst other shrubs
- Having a garden with overly acidic or alkaline soil/a rented garden where soil alterations are difficult
There are plenty of reasons to eschew beds in favour of the pot-growing life!
Choosing the right magnolia to grow in pots
It’s also better to choose smaller or dwarf varieties when planning a potted magnolia display. However, some fairly specific varieties are particularly suited to pot growing.
Evergreen Magnolia ‘Honey Velvet’. This is a brilliant variety of magnolia, renowned for its massive cream flowers – great for growing in containers.
Fairy Magnolia ‘Vanilla Pearls’. Vanilla Pearls are known for their stem-wide flowering, creating masses of fragrant blooms beyond the tips alone – amazingly, suitable for pots!
Magnolia grandiflora ‘Little Gem’. The glossy green leaves are the year-round star of this pot-friendly magnolia, while it also creates unique creamy white flowers along its stem.
These are just some examples of good magnolias that can be grown in pots but any good plant seller should be able to connect you with countless other options!
Picking your pots
Growing magnolias in pots requires a good choice of pot…duh! Start with a pot that’s slightly larger than the root ball of the plant itself, ensuring you have some next-size-up pots at the ready as the plant grows. Remember, mature magnolias will need larger, stronger pots, ideally made from terracotta or ceramic.
Importantly, your focus needs to be on pots with sufficient drainage, as waterlogged roots will kill your magnolias!
Repotting
Repotting is a simple process that follows a few basic principles:
- Repot your magnolia every 2-3 years – this is when it should have become root-bound
- Choose a pot that’s a little bit bigger than the one the plant is transitioning out of
- Gently loosen the roots carefully before removing the entire magnolia
- Always use fresh potting mix rather than reusing the contents of the last pot
General growing principles
Whether growing magnolia in pots or in beds, some fairly consistent plant care principles have to be followed.
Soil & planting rules
- Magnolias thrive in slightly acidic or neutral soils
- Ericaceous compost is good for balancing potting mix out
- Magnolias should be planted with the rootball level with the soil surface
Watering & feeding rules
- Keep soil moist but not waterlogged, testing with your finger
- Water more in the summer or on hotter days
- Feed magnolias with slow-release fertilisers
- Mulch on the top layer of the potting mix will retain moisture and combat weeds
Sunlight, weather & shelter
- Magnolias prefer full sun (6 hours a day) and can manage partial shade
- Choose a sheltered location to protect magnolias from winds
- Protect potted magnolias during colder months or harsher winds
- Consider using a footed pot to aid with drainage
With all of these tips and tricks in mind, you should be well on your way to creating a stunning potted magnolia display. Just seek out the best possible supplier and ask for their guidance, then you’ll be more than equipped.