Hi have a small cookie cutter backyard (50wide x 30deep). I put a small Southern Magnolia in the far right corner of my backyard and would like to know if I can also put in two small ornamental trees about 5 feet away from it. I know that Southern Magnolias get pretty big but also that they grow rather slow. My Magnolia tree looks pretty sad by itself, and I’d like to add some weight to that part of my yard by planting a Dogwood and a Texas Redbud. Do you have any better ideas? I live in San Antonio, TX. Would this work in the long run? I read that these two small trees do well under bigger trees, but I’m not sure about the distance. Thanks! Related Stories.
Magnolia trees are beloved for their gorgeous fragrant blooms and striking form. But to ensure your magnolias thrive, proper spacing when planting is crucial. This guide will explore optimal distances for magnolia trees based on variety along with other factors impacting layout decisions.
Overview of Magnolia Tree Types
There are over 200 magnolia species ranging significantly in mature size and growth habits. The most popular types planted in home landscapes include
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Star Magnolia: A small, multi-stemmed deciduous tree growing 15-20 feet tall. Features star-shaped, fragrant white blooms in spring.
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Saucer Magnolia A small to medium deciduous tree reaching 20-30 feet Prized for its large, cup-shaped blooms in shades of pink, white or purple.
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Southern Magnolia: An evergreen magnolia that can reach 60-80 feet tall at maturity. Known for its huge, fragrant white blooms and glossy foliage.
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Sweetbay Magnolia: A small, compact evergreen tree typically under 30 feet tall. Bears cup-shaped, lemon-scented white flowers in late spring.
Key Factors Influencing Magnolia Spacing
When determining magnolia tree spacing, consider the following key factors:
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Mature Size: Allow enough space for magnolias to reach their full size. Smaller varieties need 10-15 feet, while larger types require 20-40 feet.
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Sunlight Needs: Magnolias thrive in full sun. Ensure each tree has adequate sun exposure by adjusting spacing in shaded areas.
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Soil Quality: Rich, well-draining soil allows closer spacing, while nutrient-poor soil needs wider spacing to reduce competition.
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Air Circulation: Leave enough room between magnolias for airflow, which promotes health. Dense planting increases disease risk.
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Design Intent: Wider spacing creates a park-like effect, while tighter spacing makes a lush, full look.
Recommended Distances for Planting Magnolia Trees
Based on magnolia type, soil conditions, and other factors, follow these spacing guidelines:
Star Magnolia
- Tight Spacing: 10 feet apart
- Moderate Spacing: 12-15 feet apart
- Wide Spacing: 15-20 feet apart
Star magnolias are small, multi-trunk trees ideal for specimen planting or massing in landscapes. Give them at least 10 feet between trees if planting in rich soil and full sun. Increase to 15 feet for average conditions, or 20 feet for poor soil or partial shade.
Saucer Magnolia
- Tight Spacing: 15 feet
- Moderate Spacing: 20 feet
- Wide Spacing: 25-30 feet
The saucer magnolia’s shapely form works well showcased alone or planted in groupings. Allow 15 feet between trees in ideal conditions. For average soil or partial shade, space 20 feet apart. In poorer soils, go up to 30 feet between trees.
Southern Magnolia
- Tight Spacing: 30 feet
- Moderate Spacing: 35-40 feet
- Wide Spacing: 45-50 feet
As the largest magnolia variety, Southern magnolias need room to reach their full 60-80 foot height and spread. Use 30 foot spacing for rich soil and full sun exposure. Increase to 50 feet for poorer soils or limited sunlight.
Sweetbay Magnolia
- Tight Spacing: 10-15 feet
- Moderate Spacing: 15-20 feet
- Wide Spacing: 20-25 feet
The compact sweetbay magnolia grows nicely in tighter groupings with 10-15 feet between trees in ideal conditions. Bump spacing up to 20 feet for average soil and sunlight. In shadier spots, allow 25 feet between trees.
Common Spacing Mistakes To Avoid
When laying out your magnolia landscape, sidestep these common planting errors:
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Planting too close together – This restricts growth and creates competition.
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Not considering soil quality – Poor soil necessitates wider spacing.
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Ignoring sunlight levels – Adjust spacing to maximize light exposure.
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Planting in rows too close together – Allow 15-20 feet between rows.
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Not visualizing mature size – Leave room for trees to reach full height/spread.
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Assuming uniform conditions – Vary spacing as soil, light, etc change in your yard.
Design Tips for an Eye-Catching Magnolia Landscape
Follow these design tips to create a beautiful magnolia display:
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Repeat a single variety for cohesive look with tight, moderate or wide spacing.
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Blend magnolia types for contrasting forms, foliage and blooms.
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Frame an entryway or accent the house by planting two identical magnolias symmetrically.
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Allow enough space to highlight magnolias as specimen trees.
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Underplant with shade-loving bulbs like trilliums or woodland wildflowers.
Properly spaced magnolias make a striking statement and become focal points in any landscape. By following these guidelines, you can achieve a palette of shapes and sizes that brings out the best in these remarkable trees.
Planting Magnolias with Proper Spacing for Healthy Growth
Now that you know how far apart to space different magnolia trees, it’s time to start planting! Follow these tips to get your magnolias off to the right start:
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Prepare planting holes 2-3 times wider than the root ball. Loosened soil encourages root growth.
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Set the tree at the proper planting depth – top of root ball even with ground level.
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Backfill with amended native soil to reduce settling. Water thoroughly after planting.
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Apply 2-4 inches of organic mulch around trees to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
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Stake for support the first year if needed. Remove once established.
When planted with proper spacing and care, magnolia trees will flourish in your landscape for years of beauty to come.
The Takeaway
Allowing enough space when planting magnolia trees is crucial to their health and landscape impact. Follow the guidelines in this article to determine the best spacing based on magnolia variety, soil conditions, sunlight exposure and design intent. Avoid common errors like overcrowding and give your magnolias room to thrive. With proper planning and care, these stunning, fragrant trees will enhance your outdoor space for generations of enjoyment.
Avoid These 5 Five Mistakes When Growing and Planting Magnolias
FAQ
How close together can you plant magnolia trees?
How much space do magnolia trees need?
Where should you not plant a magnolia tree?
What month is best to plant a magnolia tree?
When should you plant a magnolia tree?
When shopping, choose magnolias based on flowering time, hardiness zone, color, and mature size. Magnolias can be planted in spring or fall. If planting in autumn, get the tree in the ground 4-6 weeks before the first frost to allow time to grow new roots. Bare root stock received in spring should be planted as soon as received.
How far apart should magnolia trees be planted?
Allow for Growth: Space trees at least 10 to 20 feet apart to provide room for branches and root systems. Avoid Clustering: Plant magnolias away from structures, power lines, and other trees to prevent competition and overcrowding.
How do I plant a magnolia tree?
A quick tip when planting your magnolia tree is choosing one with smaller root balls. When digging the hole for your new magnolia tree make sure you have at least 10 feet of space between the bottom of the hole and any brick or block wall on your property.
Can you plant magnolias near a house?
This blog post answers whether it’s possible to plant magnolias close to the house. Magnolia trees can be planted close to a house if certain steps are taken to prevent the roots from damaging the foundation of the home or causing other damage.
How do I choose a magnolia tree?
Many people find planting trees a bit daunting. Understand Magnolia Varieties: Choose from options like Southern, Saucer, and Star magnolias, considering their size, climate adaptability, and maintenance needs for your landscape.
Can a magnolia tree be moved?
Magnolias don’t like to be crowded, and once established, they don’t like to be moved. Don’t plant anything beneath them, including grass, as the leaves will fall and smother anything below them. When left to decompose as a mulch, the leaves provide essential nutrients to the tree. Planting a magnolia is a straightforward process.