Q.I Have A Magnolia Susan Standard Tree 5 Ft Tall The Branches Seem To Be Dead But The Main Stem Is Still Green Up Until About 3 Ft
high. Can I prune back to the where the green stem is? I planted this last May when it was in flower. Everything seemed ok with it but it has been very wet over winter and I have clay soil. I thought it may flower but nothing has happened as yet. When looking mor closely I think the branches are dead ( no green showing)
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Unfortunately, your photo did not come through.
Saturated soils will be a problem for many trees and plants. so amending clay soil for drainage is a must. By now, you are experiencing this, first hand. You may lose the tree, but it will give you an opportunity to fix the soil for the next planting.
These articles will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/the-importance-of-soil-for-an-organic-garden.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/improving-garden-soil.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/magnolia/magnolia-tree-care.htm
