| The flowers on your Japanese, or saucer magnolia, may be suffering from cold weather. The buds develop very early in the spring and it doesn't take much to damage or even kill the flowers before they have a chance to open. In general terms, magnolias prefer excellent, rich soil with plenty of organic matter. It must be well drained but moist. Prune as needed after flowering but before setting buds for next season. Plant in protected area to delay blooming as long as possible. Morning sun with filtered shade in the heat of day is ideal. It will take full sun if well mulched and moist, but such conditions often promote earlier flowering which is subject to cold damage. You may want to move your magnolia. If so, do it now and be sure to amend the new planting bed with plenty of organic matter to promote excellent drainage. Best wishes with your magnolia! |
