Greetings! I have a very large Lemon Magnolia Tree that was planted in my front yard in 1964. I've been told that this tree technically should never have survived because I live in Vermont near the Canadian Border and our Winters here are cold and brutal. The tree has flourished and blooms every year; albeit it's the last tree in the area to bud and grow its leaves and blooms back (Mid-May), and also the last to shed its leaves (Mid-November). This beautiful tree is now in need of pruning as it's taking over my front porch and driveway. My question is this, "What time of the year can a tree like this be safely pruned without damaging it", and "May I hire a local professional tree trimmer to prune it?" So far, I've not found anyone in this area who is familiar with Lemon Magnolia Trees. I would appreciate any advice or assistance. Thank you so much!
Greetings Ron! To answer your question honestly.....I have NO idea! I can tell you that the blossoms are enormous and the large stem in the center smells just like lemons. The leaves are also very large; sort of elephant-like. When I purchased the property 3 years ago, the previous owners warned that once in a while I might find a group of people outside my home on a field trip from one of the Universities to view the tree. Apparently, this tree was never supposed to be able to grow in such a cold climate and that it's considered an anomoly. *shrugs* Haven't seen a group of people yet, but the folks in the village behave as if this tree is "special" and I've inherited the role of caretaker for it! Yikes! I grew up in Northern California, and I'm fairly proficient at identifying Redwood Trees, and a plethora of pine, etc., but Magnolia Trees are something I know nothing about, hence my plea. Thanks! Kimberly
Probably M. macrophylla. Minimize pruning. Cut whole branches back to point of origin rather than cutting out small portions. Avoid cutting large branches if at all possible. Large cuts liable to not close over readily.
Greetings Ron! Thank you so much for the advice.........It's MOST appreciated! Have a super weekend! Kimberly
