Magnolias are statuesque plants that will add immediate impact and beauty to your garden. As fully mature plants, Magnolias can grow quite large and will reward you with an abundance of beautiful tulip-shaped flowers that range from purest white to deep purple, with many colours in between. Small and Dwarf specimens make for excellent container grown plants and you can position these close to the home to take full advantage of their perfume.These magnificent plants are sure to reward the gardener for many years to come once established and require little care and attention in return. When you get your plants home you should move them in to their permanent planting positions as soon as possible. If you cannot plant immediately after getting plants home you should make sure that your plants are watered well and stored in a cool and bright space where they will not be damaged or knocked over.In terms of where to plant your Magnolia a position in either sun and part shade will be acceptable. Plants will vary in potential height and spread according to the species or cultivar that you purchase and this should be considered when you are looking to buy your plant. There are a wide variety of plants available to the gardener nowadays and they will range from large trees to smaller specimens suitable for small gardens and containers. Magnolias will benefit from the protection of a windbreak or hedge and you should avoid frost pockets as some plants can be susceptible to frost damage, especially when flowering in early Spring.A well prepared soil that is deep, fertile and moisture retentive, but free draining, will be ideal for growing Magnolias. A pH ranging from neutral to slightly acidic will ensure correct growth and you can ensure your soil is suitable for growing Magnolias, and any other plants for that matter, with the use of a soil testing kit, which will give specific readings on the pH of your garden. Irrespective of your soil type and pH, you can improve it further in preparation for planting by digging it over with a garden fork or spade and adding organic matter. Well-rotted garden compost, leaf mould or multi-purpose compost will suffice and will help to improve drainage, structure and moisture retention.Your Magnolia is vulnerable immediately after planting and it is therefore necessary to maintain a strict regime of watering until plants become fully established. Water plants well for a year after planting, especially if conditions are dry and hot, and feed your plant at regular intervals with a general fertiliser. You should be careful not to over water plants as waterlogged conditions will seriously inhibit growth and performance.Pruning is not often required but you may choose to prune your Magnolia in late Winter when branches are not hidden by dense foliage. Generally Magnolias do not need regular pruning but you can remove any dead, diseased or crossing branches and create an appropriate shape ensuring a good branch network is in place.