Hi, I am new to the board. I was searching for answers to my question about pruning my magnolia tree and found that it depends on what kind of tree you have. So, I am including a photo and hope that some of you experienced green-thumbs out there might be able to help. Even my garden-guru mother didn't know the answer! So, how do I go about pruning this lovely tree? Does it look like it needs to be pruned? Please help this inexperienced plant lover! Thanks, Bloomin Confused (aka Ali)
Hi Ali, I agree that it shouldn't be pruned. It's lovely. I would recommend that you remove a the grass around the base of the tree and put down mulch about 2" thick. Magnolias are shallow rooted trees and don't do well with competition from lawns. Besides, you risk nicking the trunk with a lawn mower or weed wacker. I would do the same thing with the tree on the left where you have surface roots. You only risk nicking those roots with a lawnmower and allowing pests and disease to enter. You should find these sites helpful. Your magnolia is a saucer magnolia. http://www.rnews.com/print.cfm?id=9601 http://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheets/HGIC1015.htm How to mulch trees: http://www.treesaregood.com/treecare/mulching.aspx Newt
Newt, Thank you so much for all of the information you supplied! My saucer magnolia (now I know) was my grandparents, so it has sentimental value as well as being so enjoyable. I have checked out the sites that you included and will be following your mulching suggestion ASAP! I really appreciate your knowledgable response. Thanks a bunch, Ali
