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Magnolia Tree help #867144

Asked May 05, 2024, 8:27 PM EDT

I recently bought a house with a large, established magnolia tree. It obviously hasn’t been pruned to best advantage and it’s so big (over 20’ tall) I’m afraid I’ll kill it by pruning too much or trying to top it at this point. This year its leaves started to curl and it’s looking unhealthy. I noticed a spot in the trunk that looks like it’s decaying. What is wrong with it? What can I do to heal it?

Ingham County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello Melissa,

This tree looks to be a Saucer magnolia (Magnolia x soulangeana). This tree has few problems. Read about it here: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a885

It frequently is damaged by late frosts in the spring which may account for the curling leaves. The damage to the trunk may be caused by girdled roots or environmental issues, such as being hit be weed trimmers or lawn mowers. The tree is showing some stress. Trees should be planted with the root flare at the level of the soil. It is difficult to see the root flare or where the trunk goes into the ground. The grass and plants need to be pulled 3 or feet back from the trunk of the tree and the area should be covered with an organic mulch which will keep weeds out and moisture in.

However, it is difficult what is causing problems for the tree from a picture. A certified arborist will be able to properly assess the tree and advise on how to prune it. To find an arborist in your area, go to: www.treesaregood.org ,the website of the International Society of Arboriculture.

Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.


An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 06, 2024, 10:41 AM EDT

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