Southern magnolia trees

Question

My 5 year old daughter wanted me to cut a flower off of our magnolia tree and put inside our house in water. However, the flower is still closed. The petals are slightly loose at the top. We went ahead and cut the branch since the tree has been neglected for a few years anyway at an abandoned house. Is it possible to save the flower and experience watching it open all the way and completely bloom? If so, can you please tell me how? I am a rookie with plants and recently started doing more and more gardening since my mother passed away not too long ago. As I’m sure you are aware, 5 year old kids can be quite impatient and can cause the 5 year old impatient child inside me to cut this flower early because I’m more excited than my daughter and I can’t wait. Plus, the last few full bloom magnolia flowers either were stolen and I’m not sure if ate by squirrels, raccoons, birds etc.. We didn’t want to take a chance since we could reach this one.

Answer 1

Depending on how tight the flower bud is, it may or may not open.

Give the cut end a fresh cut at an angle with a sharp knife or shears.
Place in clean water and place in a bright location out of direct sunlight.

Watch and wait!

Magnolia blossoms will not last very long but are so very pretty!