The ‘March Till Frost’ Magnolia is a unique flowering tree prized for its exceptionally long blooming season. This magnolia offers a continuous display of blossoms from early spring until the first hard frost, making it a desirable addition to many landscapes.
What is a March Till Frost Magnolia
The ‘March Till Frost’ Magnolia, botanically known as Magnolia ‘March Till Frost’, is a cultivated hybrid. It typically grows as a small, upright tree or a dense shrub, reaching a mature height of 15 to 20 feet with a similar spread of 18 to 20 feet.
The blooms emerge as purple buds, opening into striking pinkish-purple, tulip-shaped flowers with lighter, almost white interiors. These flowers are generally smaller than those of traditional tulip magnolias and usually do not open completely. This magnolia’s repeat-blooming nature allows it to produce flowers sporadically throughout the summer and fall after its initial spring flush. It is hardy in USDA Zones 5 to 7.
Essential Care for March Till Frost Magnolia
This tree flourishes in locations that receive full sun to partial shade, ideally with some shelter from strong, cold winds to protect its delicate blooms. The soil should be fertile, consistently moist, and well-drained, with a preference for a neutral to slightly acidic pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Incorporating organic matter into the planting hole can enrich the soil, supporting healthy root development.
When planting, ensure the tree is not set too deeply, as magnolias possess shallow, spreading root systems. Allow ample space around the tree, considering its mature spread of approximately 20 feet, and avoid planting other vegetation directly over its root zone. Once established, magnolias do not tolerate transplanting well, so choosing a permanent location is advised.
Consistent watering is necessary, particularly for newly planted magnolias during their first few years and during dry or hot periods for mature trees. While established plants can tolerate some drought, regular moisture promotes better appearance and vigor. Fertilization is typically not required for mature, healthy trees, especially if organic mulch is applied annually. For young or newly planted specimens, a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving trees and shrubs can assist with establishment.
Pruning of the ‘March Till Frost’ Magnolia is generally minimal, focusing on health and structural maintenance. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. If shaping or size reduction is desired, perform these tasks gradually over several years to prevent undue stress.
Avoid pruning in late winter or early spring, as magnolias are prone to “bleeding” sap. The optimal time for pruning deciduous magnolias is after their main flush of flowering, from mid-summer to early autumn. Additionally, remove any vigorous, upright growths known as watershoots by cutting them back to the trunk or a main branch.
Winter protection is a consideration for ‘March Till Frost’ Magnolias, especially in colder zones, due to potential late frosts damaging early flower buds. Planting in a sheltered location helps mitigate this risk. Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of the trunk in early spring helps conserve soil moisture and suppresses weed growth, which is beneficial for the tree’s shallow root system.
Common Challenges and Solutions
The ‘March Till Frost’ Magnolia can encounter certain issues. Environmental stresses like late spring frosts can damage the tree’s early flower buds, affecting the initial bloom display. Issues such as leaf scorch or discoloration often indicate poor water management or nutrient imbalances.
Pests can also affect magnolias. Scale insects, particularly magnolia scale, are a common concern, feeding on sap and leading to weakened branches and honeydew, which can encourage sooty mold growth. Applying horticultural oil during the dormant season or specific insecticides when crawlers are active can manage infestations. Aphids can cause distorted foliage by sucking sap, and can be controlled with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or by encouraging natural predators. Caterpillars may chew on leaves; for minor infestations, hand-picking can be effective.
Several diseases might appear on magnolias. Leaf spot, caused by bacteria or fungi, rarely requires chemical intervention; instead, promptly removing and disposing of infected leaves can help. Powdery mildew can present as a white, powdery coating on leaves. Canker diseases can kill branches, which should be pruned out immediately. Root rot, often a sign of overly wet soil, manifests as yellowing leaves and stunted growth, emphasizing the importance of good drainage.