Can I transplant magnolia little gem?

The narrow spread of “Little Gem” makes it somewhat easier to transplant than larger-growing magnolias, as the root system of magnolia trees spreads well beyond the canopy. However, moving an established “Little Gem” is a difficult task due to its long tap root.

When can you transplant a magnolia?

Timing wise, the best time to ove a Magnolia is anytime from late Autumn, to the very early spring February , as it needs to be done whilst the plant is dormant. If moved during the winter months pick a mild spell so that ground can be dug and its not frozen or waterlogged.

Does Little Gem magnolia have invasive roots?

The roots of Little Gem Magnolia have a characteristic of wide-spreading, stretching from trunk to a span of four times the umbrella diameter but they’re non-invasive.

Can you top a little gem magnolia?

Make your cuts at a 45-degree angle 1/4 inch above a leaf, leaf bud or side branch. Southern magnolias (Magnolia grandiflora) are grand trees in full bloom, but mature specimens top out at 60 to 80 feet tall, and can overwhelm a small yard.

Can you dig up and replant a magnolia tree?

Most magnolias can safely be moved if the trunk is less than four inches in diameter. If you have time, sever some of the roots one year prior to moving your tree. Cut some of the roots just inside of the the rootball that you intend to dig.

Do magnolia trees have deep roots?

Magnolias have a very unusual root system in comparison with other trees and shrubs because their roots are mainly unbranched and ropelike. The way that the roots curl as they grow can make magnolia roots prone to girdling if the roots circle close to the tree’s trunk.

How close to the house can you plant a little gem magnolia?

Plant spacing Come out at least 5 feet or more from the house. If you’re planting a row of dwarf magnolias, place them 6 feet apart…or, for a privacy screen, 4 feet apart is fine. For planting along a fence, position the tree about 4 feet out.

How big will a little gem magnolia get?

The little gem magnolia grows to a height of 15–20′ and a spread of 7–10′ at maturity.

Are Little Gem magnolias messy?

Foliage of ‘Little Gem’ Southern Magnolia. The five to 8-inch-long, leathery, oblong, shiny leaves are shed as new foliage emerges in the spring. The large, slowly-decomposing leaves drop on the sidewalk or patio and are considered by some people to be messy or a nuisance to clean up.

Is it easy to transplant a little gem Magnolia?

The narrow spread of “Little Gem” makes it somewhat easier to transplant than larger-growing magnolias, as the root system of magnolia trees spreads well beyond the canopy. However, moving an established “Little Gem” is a difficult task due to its long tap root.

How big of root ball do you need to transplant magnolia tree?

Although most trees transplant successfully with root balls smaller in diameter than the tree spread, magnolia tree roots spread wider than most trees. If the spread of the tree is greater than 2 feet, prune roots inside the canopy if needed for manageability.

How old is a little gem magnolia tree?

Related Articles. “Little Gem” magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora “Little Gem”), a compact evergreen tree, is a slow-grower but can sport flowers when it’s only 2 to 3 years old. Also known as the dwarf Southern magnolia, this tree works well for smaller yards and in lawns, near decks and patios, in planters or as a privacy screen or hedge.

When is the best time to transplant a magnolia tree?

Backfill the trench with the soil removed while digging and water thoroughly. Unwrap the tree. New roots will branch out from shortened roots, creating a more compact root ball capable of sustaining the tree. Water “Little Gem” thoroughly two or three days before transplanting in midsummer.