Q.Jane Magnolia
I have a 8 year old Jane magnolia that is probably 12 feet tall. I usually cut the grass under the tree while someone holds the bottom branches up for me. I have not cut under this tree for about a month and I have notice that two or three of the bottom branches have rooted in the ground. I pulled them up and left the braches loose on top of the ground because I want to maintain the shape of the tree, and so I can mow under the tree. My parents have a Jane Magnolia that is probably 25 years old and twice this big and this has never happened to theirs that I have noticed. Really I am just wondering want is the correct thing to do when this happens, so that I do not damage the plant. I have recently planted a second Jane Magnolia this summer, so I want to get all the info I can about this. Thanks a lot….
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
This is very fortunate! You will not harm the tree by pruning these bottom branches off. It will allow you to get under the tree better. In fact... The ones that develop roots can be cut off behind the roots, to make a totally new tree that will have the same genetics as the parent. You can make as many as you want in this way.
Here is a link to help you take cuttings of the tree: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/magnolia/propagating-magnolia-trees.htm
