Planting Star Magnolia Seeds

Seeds

• When first obtaining star magnolia seeds, soak them in water to remove the fleshy covering. The seeds will need to be planted immediately so they do not dry out. Plant them about one-half of an inch deep into the soil during late fall. The next spring, they will germinate and begin to grow.

Soil

• For the best possible growth, soil used for star magnolia trees should be slightly acidic with a pH of 6.5. The soil should also be rich and the addition of compost is advised. Make sure the soil is well-drained but retains some moisture. If unsure of the soil's richness, spread rotted cow manure or compost over the top. Because star magnolias can actually grow successfully in many areas, this is all the soil care needed for a triumphant growth.

Light and Water

• Magnolia trees love full sun exposure, but they can thrive in areas where full sun is received in the morning and shade in the late afternoon. Partial shade, when light is filtered through leaves of surrounding plants and trees, may produce growth but not blooms. Star magnolias require adequate water, and they have a low resistance to drought. An area that receives 30 to 60 inches of rain annually is ideal for a star magnolia. Be careful of over-watering since the tree does not appreciate wet roots. When watering is necessary, "water deeply and less frequently," according to BackyardGardener.com.

Care

• As the tree begins to grow, add compost and mulch over the roots. This keeps them cool in the summer and provides nutrients for the roots. Magnolias cannot stand temperatures below negative eight degrees, and wrapping the trunks in burlap is advisable. For small plants, build a burlap screen to help protect them from the cold the first winter. Occasional pruning is beneficial for the health of the tree. Bear in mind that a seedling magnolia tree may take several years before it produces the white blooms for which it is famous.