Question
We have a 6' magnolia tree with a trunk diameter of about 2".  The tree was moved about a year and a half ago and was doing well, with large leaves (no blossoms this year).  However we just noticed that there are a couple of 10" splits in the bark with bark peeling away from the tree underneath.  What causes this, and what should we do?

Answer
Marietta:
Bark splitting and loss may indicate internal decay/disease activity that is usually a terminal condition.  As the decay progresses, you will notice an obvious thinning of the branches- less and less leaves each season. Replacement may be an option to consider.  Be sure to avoid any type of physical damage to the trunk-  things like string trimmers and lawnmowers are bad things for a tree!  Be sure to mulch around tree. helps prevent this plus it conserves moisture in the soil.  No deeper than 3 inches though!

Steve