Burned Shrubs And Trees – Cut Them Back Or Wait Till Spring

Q: I am not sure about what to do about the burned shrubs and trees around my house. Should I cut them back now or wait to see what they do in the spring?

A: I recently passed by a magnolia that was burned ten years ago by a lit cigar tossed in the mulch underneath. Many of the leaves were scorched and burned off but several lower limbs remarkably budded out and made new leaves within the year. I think you would be better off to leave your trees and shrubs alone for now. I’d love to see current photos and some follow up pictures in June!