Why does our magnolia tree not flower?

Question

We live in Japan. In our garden we have a magnolia but it doesn't flower. I don't know what subspecies it is, but I'd like to know more. This tree is pretty common in Japan.

Any insights?

Answer 1

It depends how established the tree is. Sometimes, a tree needs to be established before it flowers. Other species do the reverse: they cease regular flowering when established.

My father once told me a trick for making established trees flower, but he didn't mention if it was risky or not. Push a spade into the ground around the tree a few times, as a crude form of root pruning. It will cause the tree to "worry" about its loss of roots, and should cause it to try and reproduce, i.e. flower. I'm not sure if this is a tried and tested method, so use it at your own risk.

Also, maybe there is too much nitrogen in the soil. Excess nitrogen can inhibit flowering. Feeding with a potash and phosphate fertiliser can help.

Answer 2

Try feeding it with liquid fertiliser