Choose a sheltered position away from strong winds. Work plenty of ericaceous compost into the planting hole to create the right soil conditions and water well after planting. Magnolias prefer neutral to acidic, moisture-retentive but free-draining soils, so avoid very chalky ground unless improved with organic matter.

These shrubs and small trees need very little pruning. Only remove broken, diseased, or crossing branches, ideally in midsummer once flowering has finished. Heavy pruning is not recommended as it can spoil the natural shape and reduce future flowering.

Apply a mulch of leafmould or well-rotted manure in spring to help conserve soil moisture, especially on lighter soils. Water newly planted specimens regularly during dry periods, as magnolias dislike drying out. Once established, they need little attention beyond occasional feeding with an ericaceous fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth and abundant blooms.