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Question & Answer
We are discussing Gardening, Growing and Green Thumbs!
With Brian Walters, Diana O'Brien and Pauline Cornish
Question:
I have a Magnolia Little Gem which is about 6 feet tall and has been in current position about 4yrs. It is now being overcrowded by a larger tree, and I would like to know if it can be successfully transplanted, and if so, what time of year is best. We are in Melb with light clay soil. As I am not an accomplished gardener, any extra tips you may have would be welcomed.
Answer:
Pauline - It should be possible to transplant a Magnolia Little Gem of that size.
Of course there is always a risk of losing a plant when transplanting, but if it is in the wrong place I would certainly give it a go.
However, I suggest you leave it until autumn when the days are cooler.
Preparing the new hole
* Prepare the new hole well in advance by digging at least 1 metre wide and as deep as possible.
* Fill the hole with water and allow to drain away (all the water should be drained away in a few hours).
* An addition of gypsum will help with any drainage problem (this should not be a problem for you, because you have light clay soil).
Compost
* Add LOTS of compost to the existing soil. If you have to buy bags from a nursery, use planting compost and cow manure.
2 days prior
* Water the magnolia well a couple of days before transplanting and fill the new hole with water again.
* Dig around the tree so that the root ball is as big as you can manage.
On the day
* Place the plant on black plastic or a tarpaulin so that as much soil as possible stays around the roots while it is being moved.
* Place the plant carefully in the new hole and back fill with a mixture of existing soil and compost.
* Stake the plant.
* Water well, adding seasol which will help with root development.
* Mulch around the plant with Lucerne hay.
Remember, aftercare is very important - DO NOT allow the plant to dry out and once a week add seasol to the water.
Goodluck you should be successful!
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