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We planted an evergreen magnolia about 3 months ago. We live in Corlette, close to the beach and therefore the soil is very sandy. Recently, some leaves have turned yellow with brown spots. The leaves eventually fall off. Thank you.
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Annemarie73. It's sensational to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about magnolia care.
Your evergreen magnolia’s yellowing leaves with brown spots could be due to several factors, particularly given the sandy, coastal environment. One common issue is nutrient deficiency, as sandy soil tends to drain quickly and often lacks the nutrients required for healthy plant growth. Magnolias need a steady supply of nitrogen and trace elements like magnesium and iron, which might not be present in sufficient amounts. To address this, consider applying a slow-release fertiliser specifically formulated for magnolias with added trace elements.
Another potential issue is salt stress. Living close to the beach means salt from the air or soil could be impacting your magnolia, as salt can dry out leaves and cause spotting. To minimise this, try watering the tree deeply to leach excess salt from the root zone. You can also add organic matter like compost to improve the soil structure and its ability to retain nutrients and moisture.
Finally, the problem might be related to overwatering or poor drainage, which can lead to fungal infections manifesting as brown spots on the leaves. Magnolias prefer well-drained soil, so ensure you’re not watering too frequently. Mulching around the base with organic mulch can help regulate soil moisture and protect the roots. Regularly remove any fallen leaves to prevent the spread of potential fungal diseases.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
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