A mulch is very good for magnolias as it keeps the soil cool and moist. Since the buds for the next booming season are set just after they bloom, it is a good idea to trim as the blooms are fading. To wait until there is a lot of new growth is taking a chance of cutting off next year's bloom. I pick them and enjoy vases of these fragrant blooms in the house. Picking helps the tree to make new growth covered with buds.
Magnolias have a lot of uses in the Delaware Valley climate.
They look wonderful as a specimen tree or accent plant in the landscape or also work into boarders mixed with other spring bloomers such as Azaleas or Rhododendron . Finish off this effect by planting lots of bulbs and primula that last bloom at the same time. All do well in woodland garden. Now is a good time to walk around the garden and plan where you could put a magnolia. Remember that although they are easy to grow they need water.