My father-in-law, Mr. know-it-all, has a Magnolia tree near a ditch. It has always bloomed beautifully. It's about 15 years old, or more. This year it has mold on the bark. I have asked local nurseries, and the local arborists want an arm and a leg just to answer a question. Please help me help my father-in-law. I would like to do something to save this tree.

Reply to post by Kelly Hicks, on July 15, 2002 at 07:11:38:

We don't have much to go on. You haven't clearly stated that the "mold" is associated with any other problems in the tree.
You haven't indicated anything about the purpose of the ditch, or whether the ditch predates the tree.
Also, the appearance of the "mold" is not described, so we don't know for certain that is what it is.
I assume it is a Southern Magnolia, and not some other species of magnolia?
The site linked below offers information on several magnolia species. Although there are fungi that can damage Southern Magnolia, I found no specific reference to "mold".
_If_ the tree has a real problem, such as die-back, abnormal defoliation, loose bark, etc., or the tree is of great value to you, then it may be worth your while to invest in local expertise.
You might try re-posting here with more detailed descriptions, but keep in mind that it is hard to give good advice without actually being on site to examine the tree.