United Kingdom
It is going to be necessary to move a magnolia currently in the middle of our lawn ( approx. 6ft tall x 3ft wide) in order to accommodate the marquee for our daughters wedding next May. Can you advice if there is any chance of the magnolia surviving and when would be the best time to move it - hopefully into a border
- 29 May, 2015
Answers
Should be ok if done in winter
29 May, 2015
You might consider wrapping the rootball in untreated burlap for ease of movement.
29 May, 2015
I once went to a rather grand garden party at which a very attractive shrub had been left in place and the marquee erected round it. the result was unusual and most attractive.
29 May, 2015
Magnolias don't like root disturbance so I'd say the chances of it surviving, whenever it is moved, are slim.
29 May, 2015
I'd say turn the magnolia into a talking point. How about decorating it with photos of the bride and groom as they were growing up and make it the central feature of the reception?
30 May, 2015
I like the idea of it being left as a centrepiece and I love Andrew's idea of the photos.
30 May, 2015
It does seem a bit harsh too move the magnolia for the sake of one day. If it was a 16 ft high magnolia it might be different, but 6ft can easily be accommodated inside a marquee. What about using the magnolia's flowers in the colour theme?
30 May, 2015
If you're going to have the magnolia under a marquee you might jazz it up a bit by decorating it with some flashing mini lights hung around the tree.
30 May, 2015
I like that idea Loosestrife3 and Alex. Decorate it with wedding bells, garland and photos of bride and groom with lights. They just have to maneuver the marquee to a new place - always a way to make it work. If you absolutely HAVE to move the tree, I'd just cut it down and spend $39.99 next year on a new tree.
30 May, 2015
So,Diana, what are you going to do? Please tell us?
30 May, 2015
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Yes it can and has been done. 6 feet is not that tall - I'm 6'1". You'll need to dig the parameter of the drip line - tip of outermost branches x 6 feet deep. Dig same for new hole first. Best time is in fall after leaf drop.
Do it quickly and lovingly and it may flower for you for the wedding. Another option is to hire a professional arborist to do the job.
29 May, 2015