The unexpected joy of growing Magnolia

I planted Magnolia without expecting much and it's become one of the most satisfying things in my garden. multi-decade investment that improves year on year is something I couldn't have predicted from looking at it in a nursery. You only understand it once the plant is established and performing.

I keep it in a wildlife garden with native species which is perfect for it. keeping a mulch-free collar immediately around the trunk was the thing I got lucky getting right early. blossom or leaf burst in spring creating dramatic transformation stopped me in my tracks the first time I saw it. scale insects or aphids in the canopy attracting sooty mould is a real thing — just check regularly and deal with it quickly.