Plant guide
Planting & care
How to Plant and Care for Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolia
The Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora ‘Southern Charm’) is a compact, evergreen tree that produces large, fragrant white flowers. It's ideal for smaller spaces or containers.
Planting Instructions
- Location: Choose a spot with full sun. It prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil.
- Timing: Plant in spring or fall for the best results.
- Digging the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball.
- Planting: Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with native soil mixed with compost to improve drainage and nutrient content.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged for the first few months.
- Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature, keeping it away from the trunk.
Care and Maintenance
- Watering: Water deeply once a week during the first year, more frequently during hot, dry periods.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.
- Pruning: Light pruning in late winter or early spring to shape and remove dead or damaged branches.
With proper care, your Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolia will thrive, providing lush green foliage and beautiful blooms year after year.
FAQs about the Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolia
1. What makes the Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolia unique compared to other magnolia trees?
The Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolia stands out for its compact size, making it perfect for smaller gardens and landscapes. Unlike the larger varieties of magnolia, this one typically grows to about 16-20 feet tall, and its dense, upright growth habit gives it a neat, tidy appearance. Its large, white, fragrant flowers and glossy, deep green leaves with velvety brown undersides add a lush, luxurious feel to any space.
2. How much sunlight does the Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolia need?
This magnolia thrives in full sun. Ideally, it should receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day to support healthy growth and flowering. If planted in partial shade, it may still bloom, but the flowers might not be as abundant.
3. Can the Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolia attract pollinators to my garden?
Yes, the Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolia's large, fragrant flowers are excellent at attracting pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Its blooms not only add beauty to your garden but also support local wildlife by providing a source of nectar.
4. How often should I water my Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolia?
Young Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolias need consistent moisture, especially during their first growing season. Water the tree deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Once established, they are more drought-tolerant but still appreciate occasional deep watering, especially during hot, dry periods.
5. When does the Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolia bloom, and how long do the flowers last?
The Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolia typically blooms from late spring to early summer, with some additional flowering occurring throughout the growing season. The large, creamy white flowers can last for several days, and they emit a lovely, sweet fragrance that adds a touch of elegance to any garden.
