The effects of planting trees at improper depths have been clearly identified for many species. Improper planting often leads to reduced growth, reduced aesthetic value and increased mortality. Magnolia grandiflora is an evergreen species native to coastal states from North Carolina, south to Florida and west to Texas. The cultivar 'Kay Parris' is gaining popularity and is widely cultivated in the southeastern U.S. for its compact form and beauty in the landscape. On 18 December, 2023, asexually propagated 'Kay Parris' magnolia in 8.7L containers were transplanted to a field in Nacogdoches, TX. Plants were randomly assigned one of four planting depths (crown 5 cm above grade, crown planted at grade, crown 5 cm below grade and crown planted 10 cm below grade) and one of two mulching treatments (7.6cm of mulch applied or no mulch). Plants were randomly arranged in a modified complete block design comprised of 3 blocks with 2 plants of each treatment combination in a block. Dimensions of each plant (including height and width in two directions) were recorded at planting and ornamental ratings were assigned. After one year of establishment, the only statistically significant difference among the treatments was that those plants that received a mulch application grew taller than those with no mulch by over 7cm. No other statistical differences appeared in year one of the study. Year two of the study is ongoing.
