The Time to Transplant Magnolia in Louisiana

Getting to the Root

• Hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 through 9, depending on variety, Southern magnolia has shallow roots, as all magnolias do. Although the tree grows more than 60 feet tall, the majority of its roots stay in the top 12 inches of soil. The rope-like roots have few branches and grow much wider than most other trees. Large surface roots are common. When transplanted, much of that widespread root system is lost. Remaining, unbranched roots struggle to establish in new locations. Transplant shock is common for Southern magnolia and other magnolia species.

Timing Your Transplant

• The best time to transplant magnolias in Louisiana is when trees are dormant and the weather is cool. Trees can be planted from November through March, but January and February are the perfect time for evergreen magnolias such as Southern magnolia. Younger magnolias transplant more easily than more established trees. Once the trunk exceeds 4 inches in diameter, the move is much harder on the tree and those who move it. When transplanting these larger established trees, advance preparation will increase your success.

Prepping Your Magnolia

• The more your magnolia can prepare for its move, the better it will do. If possible, begin this process a year before you plan to transplant the tree. Identify how much of the soil you can take with the tree when moving it. Take as wide an area as possible to retain the most roots. Once you determine your area, dig down and slice through some of the roots just inside of where you intend to dig. This will cause those roots to develop branches well before the move. These branched roots will help the tree establish more quickly in its new home.

Making Your Move

• When transplanting your magnolia, choose a site well suited to its needs. Magnolias prefer moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Pick a sunny site that provides shelter from drying winds and late-season frosts that could nip the tree's flower buds. Prepare the hole in advance and dig at least 1.5 times as wide as the tree's root ball. Keep roots protected while moving and put the tree back in the ground as quickly as possible. Shallow roots are sensitive to being planted too deep, so keep the top of the root ball slightly above the surrounding soil. When finished, mulch your magnolia to protect its roots and keep soil moisture and temperature constant.