Nobody can deny that magnolia trees in bloom are a glorious sight. Magnolias are so commonly planted in warm regions that they have become almost emblematic of the American South. The fragrance is as sweet and unforgettable as the huge, white blossoms are lovely.
Although magnolia trees are surprisingly low maintenance, magnolia tree roots can cause problems for a homeowner. Find out what kind of root damage you can expect from a magnolia tree if you plant it close to your home below.
Magnolia trees can get as tall as 80 feet, like the state tree of Mississippi, the glorious southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora). These trees can have a 40-foot (12 m. ) spread and a trunk diameter of 36 inches (. 9 m. ). Magnolia tree roots don’t go straight down like you might think. They curve around to keep the big trees stable.
The magnolia root system is quite different, and the trees grow large, flexible, rope-like roots. These magnolia tree roots grow horizontally, not vertically, and stay relatively close to the soil surface. Because of this, planting magnolias near houses can lead to magnolia tree root damage.
The magnolia tree is renowned for its captivating flowers that bloom in spring and summer. But what lies below the soil surface is just as fascinating – the root system that supports these magnificent trees. Understanding the growth habit and spread of magnolia roots can help you avoid potential issues if planting near your home.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the root system of magnolia trees. Read on to learn more about:
- How magnolia roots grow
- Their potential for invasiveness
- Tips for planting magnolias near your house
- Ideal conditions for healthy roots
An Overview of Magnolia Tree Roots
Unlike many trees that grow deep vertical taproots, magnolias develop a spreading lateral root system. The roots extend horizontally close to the soil surface in some cases spreading up to 2-3 times wider than the tree’s canopy.
Magnolia root systems tend to be vigorous but shallow. The bulk of their roots reside within the top 12 inches of soil. This growth habit allows them to efficiently take advantage of surface moisture and nutrients.
Thick, rope-like main roots emerge from the tree’s trunk to anchor it. From these large roots, an extensive network of smaller feeding roots radiates outward. The roots remain relatively narrow compared to the tree’s immense size.
Are Magnolia Roots Invasive?
The potential for magnolia roots to cause damage has led some gardeners to term them “invasive” However, they are not invasive in the biological sense – meaning they don’t spread rampantly or harm other plants.
Still, their rapid growth and lateral spread can lead to issues when magnolias are planted too close to structures. The roots may penetrate underground pipes or crack foundations and pavement.
Keeping magnolias at a sufficient distance prevents root damage. Allow an area at least 2-3 times the expected canopy width for root expansion. Avoid planting them within 20 feet of driveways, patios, or home foundations.
Tips for Planting Magnolias Near Your House
Magnolias make outstanding specimen trees in the home landscape. But their extensive root systems mean strategic planting is important, especially near your house.
Here are some tips to integrate magnolias successfully:
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Conduct soil tests to ensure the ground is deep, fertile, and well-draining. Magnolias require these conditions for root growth.
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Select a cultivar suited to your space. Dwarf varieties under 20 feet tall are ideal for tighter areas. Standard magnolias require more room to accommodate roots.
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Plan for future growth when siting your tree. Allow plenty of space between the magnolia and any structures.
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Use preventative root barriers if planting close to your foundation or sidewalk. Install them 2-3 feet from the structure.
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Avoid excessive fertilization which can overstimulate root growth.
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Mulch around the tree to protect surface roots and retain soil moisture. Leave a buffer near the trunk to prevent rot.
Ideal Conditions for Healthy Magnolia Roots
Magnolias thrive when their root systems have room to freely expand in optimal soil. Here are the keys to creating the best root zone:
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Soil pH: Magnolias prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH of around 5.5 to 6.5. They are tolerant of close to neutral pH but may struggle in very alkaline conditions.
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Soil type: Deep, fertile, and well-draining loam enriched with organic matter. Heavier clay can suffocate roots.
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Moisture: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulch and shading help retain moisture.
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Temperature: Insulated roots protected from extreme cold fluctuations perform best.
By providing magnolias with ample space and ideal soil conditions, you can avoid potential issues with their vigorous root systems. A healthy, expansive root zone supports the steady growth of these incredible trees for decades to come.
Planting Magnolias Near House
Are magnolia roots invasive? The answer is yes and no. Even though magnolia tree roots don’t always spread, if the trees get too close to your house, you may get root damage. Most tree roots seek a water source, and magnolia tree roots are no exception.
If the magnolia tree is planted close enough to your home, its roots can easily find cracks in your plumbing because its roots are soft and its root system is not very deep. Most tree roots do not actually break water pipes very often. Roots get into the pipes and block them up, though, when the pipes break at the joints because they are old.
Magnolia roots can be up to four times wider than the tree’s canopy, so keep that in mind. In fact, magnolia tree roots spread farther than those of most trees. If your house is within root range, the roots can work their way into pipes under your house. As they do, they damage your home’s structure and/or plumbing system.
The Magnolia’s Root System: Dr. Neil Hendrickson
Does a magnolia tree have a big root system?
And it’s not surprising because root systems can cause a lot of trouble, especially if we’re talking about a small yard. The root system of a magnolia tree is as big as its crown. This is a general rule, so the bigger the tree, the bigger the roots. The roots extend about the same width as the branches. But this is not always true.
Do magnolia trees have taproots?
Magnolias generally do not have a traditional taproot. Instead, they tend to develop a wide-spreading system of shallow roots. These roots extend horizontally from the tree in all directions, often going quite far but usually staying within the top 10 to 20 inches of soil.
Why is a healthy root system important for magnolia plants?
Maintaining healthy roots and stems is essential for the overall well-being of magnolia plants. A robust root system ensures stability and proper nutrient absorption, while healthy stems allow for efficient transport of water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the plant.
Do magnolia trees have deep roots?
Magnolia does not have deep roots, its root system is superficial. However, it all depends on the size of the particular tree. If the tree is more than 30 feet tall, its roots are at least 10 feet deep. Also, different species of magnolia can have different depths. Very large specimens may have roots as deep as their width.