What’s wrong with my magnolia tree?

[Chillichutney1]

I have a magnolia denudata (jade lamp) tree, planted a few months ago. I have alkaline soil but we planted the tree with plenty of ericaceous soil and it was doing fine until a few weeks ago.

It has now started yellowing quite badly and some of the leaves are turning brown. I was thinking this may be due to the few weeks of continuous rain we had and the soil may be waterlogged. How can I tell? Pics attached and any help appreciated!

Are you in the northern hemisphere, OP? If so, I think your tree is just preparing to shed its leaves for the autumn. Magnolia denudata is deciduous, I believe.

Yes I'd say the same tbh. I have just planted a similar looking shrub and it's got exactly the same colouring on the leaves. It's planted in heavy clay which tends to stay wet and it's in a north corner with no sun so I'd be astonished if it survives! I had to plant something there as it's a miserable spot that needs cheering up!
Good luck with.your magnolia. I think.it will be fine.

Could be shedding leaves. However, if it’s in the wrong soil, it probably won’t male it. I did a similar thing a few years ago: planted the wrong stuff and ding bags and bags of the right soil. It ended up looking half dead until I replaced it.

Thank you - I’m in London but it’s been quite mild recently so wasn’t expecting the tree to shed so soon.

I also have another magnolia which is tiny and has been for years but still looking green so I am thinking the cause must be something else but how to know?

Jojo I hope you are wrong! maybe topping up with more acid compost would help

Could it be lime induced chlorosis? Just throwing it out there as something I’ve googled, how would you check?

another vote for "it's autumn" :)