Question
I planted a small magnolia tree.  It is growing fine and has begun to have flowers. The flowers when they open, look like the top leaves have been burnt. I use no fertilizer, so what is the burnt look caused by. Other than that the flowers are large and beautiful.

Answer
W.R.

Thanks for your question.  From your description, it sounds as if the outer parts of the opening flower are brown looking.  If that is the case, I suspect these are not true leaves, but the outer parts of the bud such as bud scales that usually quickly wither and fall off.

If the remainder of the tree looks good I would not be concerned.  Just be sure to avoid any sort of damage to trunk and roots.  Just keep a close watch for leaf drop etc.

Thanks Again,

Steve