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We have two magnolia tree... #153673

Asked September 21, 2013, 10:38 AM EDT

We have two magnolia trees. Right now they both have pink to red color fruits all over the trees. We have not see these fruits before as I remembered. Should I do anything about it? Should I pick them up? Your advise is greatly appreciated!

Washington County Minnesota

Expert Response

      Magnolia fruits are reddish and open to expose bright red-orange seeds in fall. The fruit is attractive to wildlife.  You may prune them off or leave them for wildlife. http://www.extension.umn.edu/yardandgarden/ygbriefs/h466magnolias.html  
Pat M MN master gardener and TCA Replied September 21, 2013, 6:33 PM EDT
Thank you very much for your response. It really helped and I have one more question -  which one (prune the fruits off or leave them) is better for the tree flower blooming next year?

Thank you,
Yihong
The Question Asker Replied September 24, 2013, 9:24 AM EDT
  The advantage of removing old flowers and is to prevent seed production.  Old flowers take energy from overall plant growth and can be a source of re-seeding. Deadheading should occur shortly after flowering.  It is difficult to know how much energy is saved when the fruits are pruned when they are almost mature.  The colorful fruits are an interesting fall characteristic of this shrub like tree.   Some sources mention collecting and saving the seed for plant propagation.  Finally birds  will eat the seed if the plants are not pruned.

Pat M MN master gardener and TCA Replied September 24, 2013, 8:53 PM EDT
Thank you so much for your response. Now I know what to do. We had flowers every year but this fall is the first time seeing the fruits. Thank you again.

The Question Asker Replied September 24, 2013, 10:04 PM EDT

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