large Magnolia in my front yard is losing LOTS of dead leaves. - Ask Extension
I can see some broken branches from the ice storm in the upper part of the tree which I suspected was the problem. A tree trimmer has suggested that ...
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large Magnolia in my front yard is losing LOTS of dead leaves. #872600
Asked June 11, 2024, 12:00 PM EDT
I can see some broken branches from the ice storm in the upper part of the tree which I suspected was the problem. A tree trimmer has suggested that the tree looks diseased.. noting holes from birds and ants on the branches and many many leaf drops. He suggests removal. I see many overlapping branches, reduced flower bloom…. I have heard Magnolias cannot tolerate Topping or extensive pruning. This tree is in the center of my small front yard,, Is an evergreen and has been a central piece in my yard. If I need to remove it.. what would you suggest as a replacement.. evergreen, smaller in size, perhaps flowering tree??
Lane County Oregon
Expert Response
You definitely do not want to top the tree. Any dead diseased branches can be removed at any time. Pruning of any significant branches should be accomplished well before fall to allow the tree time to heal these wounds..
It might be worth contacting a certified arborist (as opposed to a tree trimmer) to assess the current health of your magnolia. Here is the Pacific Northwest International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) directory where you can locate a certified arborist - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vGiCim7mxJxvBFgryG3RXCRzKbqT3Lve/view
With respect to a replacement, you might consider an Oregon native tree or shrub. Here is an Oregon State Extension publication that might be helpful - "Gardening with Oregon Native Plants West of the Cascades" - https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/pub/ec-1577-gardening-oregon-native-plants-west-cascades
You might also consider some thing like a Western crabapple even though it is deciduous. They do have beautiful flowers.
It might be worth contacting a certified arborist (as opposed to a tree trimmer) to assess the current health of your magnolia. Here is the Pacific Northwest International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) directory where you can locate a certified arborist - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vGiCim7mxJxvBFgryG3RXCRzKbqT3Lve/view
With respect to a replacement, you might consider an Oregon native tree or shrub. Here is an Oregon State Extension publication that might be helpful - "Gardening with Oregon Native Plants West of the Cascades" - https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/pub/ec-1577-gardening-oregon-native-plants-west-cascades
You might also consider some thing like a Western crabapple even though it is deciduous. They do have beautiful flowers.
