I recently purchased a bare root Butterflies Magnolia Tree. I just planted it yesterday. It had several budding branches on it. My husband accidently broke off the main branch ( only one branch still attached) with the hose. Will my little tree survive with only one branch? Is there anything I can do with the beautiful branch that broke off? Help in CT.
Magnolias are usually not purchased barerooted, so if no growth occurs later that would probably be why. Otherwise, the remaining (attached) portions will eventually grow a new tree if it likes the site and your care. Here in USDA 8 'Butterflies' is past bloom and well into leaf. Barerooting generally has a temporary stunting effect on top growth, even with trees that are highly tolerant of it. Since yours is a magnolia it may have a weak top growth for awhile yet, but it should make at least some leaves and at least a little progress fairly soon. If it doesn't...