By Scout Nelson
Magnolia trees are admired for their beauty and fragrance, but in the Dakotas, their delicate blossoms often struggle against harsh spring frosts.
That challenge inspired the development of a hardy, resilient variety known as Spring Welcome; a true “steel magnolia” bred for both beauty and toughness.
Developed by North Dakota State University, Spring Welcome stands out for its ability to survive and bloom despite freezing temperatures.
Its light-pink buds open into large, white, fragrant flowers that make it a favorite for gardeners seeking an early spring display. The tree’s glossy green leaves turn bronze in the fall, adding year-round charm.
What makes this magnolia exceptional is its superior cold tolerance. For over 20 years, it has proven winter hardy in USDA Zone 4, surviving temperatures as low as minus 40°F.
Even after spring frosts, its flower buds continue to bloom, outperforming other magnolia varieties in the region.
Beyond its strength, Spring Welcome resists pests and diseases and is rarely bothered by deer or rabbits. It grows well in the Dakotas’ prairie soils, reaching 15 feet tall with an oval to rounded shape, and it begins blooming at a young age.
For successful growth, experts recommend choosing a cool, east-facing location to prevent early blooming. Gardeners should enrich the soil with peat moss and mulch to improve drainage and maintain cooler spring temperatures.
With its combination of grace and endurance, Spring Welcome brings southern elegance to northern gardens, proving that magnolias can thrive beautifully in the Dakotas. Gardeners can order one from local nurseries for spring planting.
Photo Credit: pexels-tom-van-dyck
Categories: North Dakota, General