Ann Magnolia

Bare Root Trees & Shrubs need to be kept moist at all times.  Once your plants arrive open the bag it came in and immerse the whole plant in water for at least 12 hours before potting or planting. The roots will re-hydrate and enable new bud growth to develop successfully.

If you are unable to plant immediately, open the box to expose the stems but do not remove the wrapping around the roots, as this preserves moisture. Store the shrubs upright in a cool, humid, dimly lit location. Before planting, remove all packaging material, including the copper twist tie, then soak the entire plant, stems and roots, in a pail of water for 12-24 hours. At no time, should the roots ever be exposed to sun or wind, or be allowed to dry out. Trim off any broken roots or branches before planting.

Shrubs can be planted as soon as you can dig in your garden in early spring. You do not have to wait until frosts are over. These shrubs are hardy and can withstand cold temperatures.  Water immediately and thoroughly upon arrival. Allow excess water to drain and store in a cool, dimly lit location. If you cannot plant within a day or two, these plants should be potted up into bigger containers, kept in a bright location and watered regularly. When planting out, gently remove the plant from the pot.

Leafed out, growing, non-dormant plants are sometimes shipped from our greenhouses in pots. These plants should be hardened off before planted outside if it is very cold in your area. Either gradually acclimatize the plant in a part sun location outdoors for a few days or if you choose to plant, it is recommended to cover with straw or an old blanket if a hard frost threatens.

Choosing the Site:

Some shrubs and trees will require full sun that is at least six to eight hours a day, preferably afternoon sun. Please see individual listings for light requirements for each shrub, vine or tree. Choose an open site where breezes will blow through. This will aid in drying the foliage, preventing many fungal and viral diseases. Ideal spacing will enable trees and shrubs to grow more successful with less competition for water and nutrients. Take note of the mature size of your tree or shrub which will allow proper room to grow in height as well as width. Snow provides excellent insulation for even the most tender plant, so consider a spot where snow may gather naturally. The site should be well-drained. If water tends to puddle in the area, either choose a different site, or raise the bed by at least 5 cm (2 inches) by adding organic matter.

The Soil:

Most shrubs and trees grow best in a rich, loamy soil with sufficient drainage. Loamy soil is basically a good combination of sand, clay, organic matter, and silt. To help soil keep rich, a yearly application of top dressing consisting of well-rotted manure or kitchen compost is advised. Most plants are adaptable to a neutral soil pH of 6.8-7.2, while some require slightly higher or lower levels which are noted in each individual listing.

Planting:

Grow magnolias in partial shade; morning sun with afternoon shade is best. Select a very sheltered location, between buildings or among large evergreens where snow collects.

Growing:

Magnolias set their flower buds for next year in late summer, and these buds are tenderer than other parts of the shrub. Star magnolia will bloom profusely only if it is protected during cold, dry winter weather. A warm spell in March may signal buds to break dormancy; frost afterwards will kill buds. Prune immediately after flowering for shape and size. Magnolias often drop all their leaves at once on a calm day, leave these leaves in place and lightly cover with mulch to keep soil fertility high. Flowers in early spring before leafing out. Slow growing. Can grow up to 6 meters (20 feet) high, but expect a smaller size in cold climates.