Question
Hi Jim,
I have a 2 part question about a Magnolia tree in my yard. I live along the Gulf Coast of Florida. The home we bought a few years ago came with a Magnolia tree, but I do not know the age of it. It is located in the back yard (south).
The first part of the question is: is this fungus (?) Lichens? If not what is it?
The second is: the tree is producing flower buds but only a few seem to flower. Most of them simply fall to the ground. Is there something that can be done to make more of the flower bud bloom?
Thank you!
Answer
These are lichens and are not a health problem to the tree.
More likely, the plant is missing some essential trace elements, or micronutrients. Call your local cooperative extension service to test the soil and help you determine the right balance. In my experience, nitrogen-rich soils encourage trees to produce more vegetative growth and fewer flowers, and the alfalfa mulch you're using is rich in nitrogen. I bet you need more phosphorus and micronutrients to stimulate root growth and flowering. Use a fertilizer called super-phosphate (0-20-0) and your recommended micronutrients. I would add about 1 lb per inch of trunk diameter scattered around the tree and watered in good. A fertilizer called Holly tone will work well. Use it this fall and again in the spring.
Check with your local nursery/garden type store for a flowering fertilizer.
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