Sick Magnolia - Ask Extension
I bought this Victoria Magnolia tree from Shaw Oregon and the leaves are dropping. I have had it for about a month now. At first I thought pests so I ...
Knowledgebase
Sick Magnolia #872891
Asked June 12, 2024, 10:35 PM EDT
I bought this Victoria Magnolia tree from Shaw Oregon and the leaves are dropping. I have had it for about a month now. At first I thought pests so I have applied Neem. This has not slowed any fallout unfortunately. Repotted in case the roots were over watered but even after repot the leaves continue to fall even tho it is also producing new leaves. I’ve attached images of the fallen orange leaves as well. Any help is appreciated.
Polk County Oregon
Expert Response
Dear Sofia,
Thank you for contacting us about your new Southern Magnolia. There are several reasons your tree may be dropping leaves.
This species typically sheds a lot of leaves during root disturbances such as transplanting.
They prefer moist, well-drained, acidic soils and placement in full sun. Poor drainage or too little water can cause the tree's leaves to turn yellow so make sure any excess water can drain freely away from the pot. Water slowly and deeply, but avoid keeping the soil constantly wet or allowing it to dry out completely.
Magnolia grandiflora ‘Victoria’ can grow to more than 30 feet tall with a fairly shallow yet spreading root system. As such, it is not suitable for container-growing over the long term. Are you planning to plant this tree in the ground?
Once the tree gets established, it will benefit from fertilization for the first few years. Follow the manufacturer's directions for how much and how often. Keep about 2-inches of mulch over the entire root zone including up to an inch of compost each year. This will help avoid moisture loss and swings in soil temperature.
I do not see any signs of pests but the damage on the older leaves may very well be from growing conditions or rough handling. The newer growth looks healthy and with good care the tree should be fine.
I hope this information is helpful. Please write again if you have more questions.
Thank you for contacting us about your new Southern Magnolia. There are several reasons your tree may be dropping leaves.
This species typically sheds a lot of leaves during root disturbances such as transplanting.
They prefer moist, well-drained, acidic soils and placement in full sun. Poor drainage or too little water can cause the tree's leaves to turn yellow so make sure any excess water can drain freely away from the pot. Water slowly and deeply, but avoid keeping the soil constantly wet or allowing it to dry out completely.
Magnolia grandiflora ‘Victoria’ can grow to more than 30 feet tall with a fairly shallow yet spreading root system. As such, it is not suitable for container-growing over the long term. Are you planning to plant this tree in the ground?
Once the tree gets established, it will benefit from fertilization for the first few years. Follow the manufacturer's directions for how much and how often. Keep about 2-inches of mulch over the entire root zone including up to an inch of compost each year. This will help avoid moisture loss and swings in soil temperature.
I do not see any signs of pests but the damage on the older leaves may very well be from growing conditions or rough handling. The newer growth looks healthy and with good care the tree should be fine.
I hope this information is helpful. Please write again if you have more questions.
