MAGNOLIA soul. Susan 120-140cm

Magnolia soulangeana ‘Susan’ Care Guide

Magnolia soulangeana ‘Susan’ is a stunning, deciduous shrub or small tree prized for its deep pink to purple, tulip-shaped flowers that bloom in early spring. It is a compact, slow-growing variety, making it perfect for small gardens, borders, and container planting. With its fragrant blossoms and attractive foliage, this Magnolia adds year-round interest to any landscape. Proper care will ensure healthy growth and an abundance of blooms every season.

Ideal Growing Conditions

• Botanical Name: Magnolia soulangeana ‘Susan’
• Common Name: Magnolia ‘Susan’
• Plant Type: Deciduous shrub or small tree
• Mature Size: Reaches 3-4m in height with a spread of 2-3m, but remains smaller when grown in a container.
• Foliage: Dark green, oval-shaped leaves that turn golden in autumn.
• Flowers: Deep pink to purple, tulip-shaped flowers appear before the leaves in spring.
• Flowering Season: Blooms from mid-spring to early summer, often producing a light second flush in late summer.
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate growth, taking several years to reach full size.
• Hardiness: Fully hardy in USDA Zones 5-9, suitable for UK gardens.

Light and Soil Requirements

• Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. A sunny spot encourages more abundant flowering.
• Soil: Thrives in moist, well-drained, fertile soil. Prefers loamy or sandy soil with good aeration.
• pH Level: Best in neutral to slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-7.0). Avoid heavy alkaline soils.

Watering and Moisture

• Newly Planted Magnolias: Water deeply once or twice a week during the first year to help establish roots.
• Established Plants: Requires consistent moisture, especially in dry periods, but dislikes waterlogged conditions.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch (such as bark or compost) around the base in spring to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Planting and Maintenance

How to Plant Magnolia ‘Susan’

• Planting Time: Best planted in early spring or autumn, avoiding extreme heat or frost.
• Spacing: Allow at least 2-3m between other trees or shrubs to provide space for growth.
• Planting Depth: The root ball should be level with the soil surface—avoid planting too deep.
• Container Growing: Choose a large pot with drainage holes, using a mix of ericaceous compost and loamy soil.

Pruning and Shaping

• Minimal Pruning Required: Magnolias do not require heavy pruning—only remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
• Best Time to Prune: If needed, prune in late summer or early autumn after flowering.
• Shaping: Light pruning can help maintain a balanced shape, but excessive trimming may reduce flowering the following season.

Feeding and Fertilization

• Early Spring Feeding: Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer (such as fish, blood & bone) to encourage growth.
• Summer Boost: Use a liquid seaweed feed or high-phosphorus fertilizer to support flowering.
• Organic Matter: Adding well-rotted compost or manure to the soil each spring improves fertility.

Common Pests, Diseases, and Seasonal Care

Potential Pests and Diseases

• Scale Insects: Small insects that attach to stems and suck sap, causing weak growth.
  • Solution: Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
• Aphids: Can gather on new shoots, causing distorted growth and reduced flowering.
  • Solution: Wash off with soapy water or introduce ladybirds as natural predators.
• Leaf Spot: Fungal disease that causes brown spots on leaves in humid conditions.
  • Solution: Remove affected leaves and ensure good air circulation.

Seasonal Care Tips

• Spring: Feed plants, apply mulch, and water regularly to encourage strong flowering.
• Summer: Maintain moisture levels during dry periods and check for pests.
• Autumn: Prune lightly if necessary, and remove any fallen leaves to reduce disease risk.
• Winter: Protect young trees from harsh frosts with a horticultural fleece or extra mulch around the roots.

Landscape Uses and Companion Planting

Magnolia ‘Susan’ is an excellent choice for small gardens, mixed borders, and container planting. It provides a stunning focal point and works well in both formal and informal landscapes.

Ideal Companion Plants

• Rhododendrons – Thrive in similar acidic soil and add evergreen interest.
• Camellias – Complement Magnolia’s blooms with early spring flowers.
• Hostas – Provide lush, contrasting foliage beneath Magnolia trees.
• Ferns – Enhance woodland settings with soft, green textures.

Summary

Magnolia soulangeana ‘Susan’ is a compact, elegant flowering tree that produces deep pink, fragrant blooms each spring. Its hardy nature, low maintenance, and suitability for containers or garden planting make it a superb choice for any outdoor space. By providing well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade, and occasional feeding, this beautiful Magnolia will flourish and reward you with years of breathtaking floral displays

• Size
  20 Litre

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

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Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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