Magnolia Problem

Question

Hi I had a look at your past questions but couldn’t find anything similar. My young magnolia plant which I’ve had for two years recently started losing most of its leaves, the remaining leaves look healthy though. Parts of the stem look like they’re being eaten by something, see pic. Can you please advise? Many thanks 🙂

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Answer 1

You didn't mention what the leaves look like before they fall;it's possible you have some type of scale eating away at your trees. If so, these articles may help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/magnolia/magnolia-is-attracting-wasps.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/control-plant-scale.htm

I believe I see holes in the bark and wood boring insects are a more serious matter. You may want to contact a certified arborist for help. In addition, if you have university extension services like we have in the U.S., they should be able to help you. This article may be of interest:
https://extensionentomology.tamu.edu/publications/wood-boring-insects-of-trees-and-shrubs/