Magnolia virginianaSweetbay magnolia, Swamp laurel

Plant in a sunny position that recieves a minimum of 4-6 hours of sunshine per day and is sheltered from cold winds and hard spring frosts. Magnolia grandiflora grows well when trained against a warm, sheltered wall. Plants in unsuitable, exposed positions will suffer winter foliar damage. Suitable for all soils, from acid to alkaline, that are rich, moist and well-drained. Incorporate plenty of well rotted manure or garden compost to improve the soil prior to planting, mixing it thoroughly and deeply. Magnolia plants establish quicker when their roots are shaded. Following planting, apply a mulch of rotted bark chips, manure or garden compost, taking care not to mound it around the stem of the plant. When growing in a patio container use a blend of ericaceous compost mixed with John Innes No. 3.

Water regularly throughout the growing season until fully established. In spring, apply a mulch of well rotted bark chips or garden compost to the base of the plant. Fertilise once a year in the spring with a slow release tree and shrub fertiliser.

Protect from cold winds and hard frosts which can cause foliar damage.

Plants in pots will be at increased risk of the root ball becoming completely frozen and should be moved into a sheltered location, conservatory or cool greenhouse over winter.

Tolerates pruning well. The best time to prune is after blooming. Remove old or diseased wood and trim to shape. 

Seeds and garden supplies will normally be delivered within the time period stated against each product as detailed above. Plants, bulbs, corms, tubers, shrubs, trees, potatoes, etc. are delivered at the appropriate time for planting or potting on. Delivery times will be stated on the product page above, or in your order acknowledgement page and email.

Orders for packets of seed incur a delivery charge of £2.99.

Orders which include any other products will incur a delivery charge of £6.99.

Where an order includes both packets of seeds and other products, a maximum delivery charge of £7.99 will apply - regardless of the number of items ordered.

Large items may incur a higher delivery charge - this will be displayed in your shopping basket.

Please see our Delivery page for further details, and more information on different charges that may apply to certain destinations.

For more information on how we send your plants please visit our Helpful Guide on plant sizes.