Information About Caring for Magnolia Denudata
The Magnolia Denudata is also known as the Yulan Magnolia; it is medium size tree that will grow up to 50 feet in height with the proper care. This tree originated in Central China and was introduced to other parts of the world in the late 18th century. The leaves on this tree are dark green in color and the Yulan also produces fragrant white flowers that are 5-inches in diameter.
Although the flowers that are produced by the Magnolia Denudata are very beautiful, they bloom early in the year so are easily damaged if there is a late frost. Like most Magnolia trees, this tree will tolerate some colder temperatures, but it will easily be damaged if the climate is too hot and dry, plus it will sustain wind damage if you live in an area where high winds are frequent.
To grow the Magnolia Denudata you will want to plant in full sun, in an area that gets at least six hours of sun exposure a day, otherwise this tree will not reach its full growth potential. It is possible to grow this tree in partial sun, but the tree probably won’t produce as many flowers as it would if planted in a place with better sunlight. For this reason the best place to plant Magnolia is on the south or west side of a building, but if the buildings are so close together that these areas are cast in shadow, you will want to find a better location to plant.
After you have found a suitable location to plant your Magnolia tree, you will need to dig a hole that is at least three times the diameter of the roots of the tree. The hole should be about the same depth too. Place the tree in the hole with the best side facing forward. You will then need to replace as much of the soil back in the hole as possible, no less than half of the original soil. After filling the hole make sure that you make a water ring around the area of the roots; this will help to get water to the area that needs it the most.
It is also necessary to prune this tree on a regular basis. For best results you will first want to cut back the diseased and dead branches so that the tree is not losing nutrition, then you can trim the tree to a natural, but manicured shape. When trimming the Magnolia Denudata tree, remember that you will need to remove dead branches from inside the tree, as well as the branches that are easily seen from the outside. This tree will need to be pruned at least twice a year, in the spring and in the fall.
Some common problems that you might have with the Magnolia include leaf spots, which are caused by bacteria. If the tree develops leaf spots they will appear as brown or black patches on the foliage. To help control this disease you will want to remove on infected leaves, plus you should keep dead leaves raked up from around the tree.
Another problem you may encounter when growing the Magnolia Denudata is scale insects. This is an insect that is a lot like the mealybugs; these insects suck at the tree sap and cause other disease, such as fungi to set in. Controlling these insects can be very difficult once they have infested a tree; it is best to consult your local nursery for advice.
There is no doubt that this is a beautiful tree to add to your landscaping scheme, but be sure you know the tree’s requirements to ensure that you are successful, and end up with a healthy tree when you are done.