Little Gem Magnolia Tree

1. Planting: Plant your Little Gem Magnolia in an area that receives full to partial sunlight (4 to 8 hours of sunlight per day). Although Little Gem Magnolias prefer full sun, they can tolerate shade. For a privacy screen or hedge, plant your Little Gem Magnolias about 5 feet apart. Make sure that your tree doesn't sit in a low area of your yard that collects standing water.

Little Gem Magnolias prefer slightly acidic soil but will adapt to your natural soil, even if it's sandy or heavy in clay, as long as it's well draining. When you're ready to plant, dig a hole that's large enough to accommodate your tree's root ball. Then, place the tree, backfill the soil and water to settle the roots.

2. Watering: After planting your Little Gem Magnolia, water it once or twice weekly. If you're not sure when to water, check your soil about 3 inches down and water when it's dry. Water just beyond the branch line to reach the full extent of the roots.

Once your Magnolia is established, it's drought tolerant and will only need water during times of extreme heat or when your area hasn't gotten enough rainfall.

3. Fertilizing: Early every spring, fertilize your Little Gem Magnolia with a well-balanced fertilizer, like formula 10-10-10 or 8-8-8. White creamy flowers will emerge in the spring and keep blooming all summer and into the fall.