The bud in the photo is a miracle of sorts. We adopted a Magnolia tree from a neighbor. The poor thing was root bound in a small pot and sickly. It had not bloomed and its leaves were sparse. What it most needed was to be removed from its small pot and given room for its roots to stretch out. My husband planted it and watered it. I went out every morning and spoke to the tree, not sure my words would actually help anything. What I needed and wanted most was for it to live, not just survive but thrive. It is thriving and it blessed me with beautiful short lasting blossoms. I didn’t know much about Magnolia trees. I knew almost nothing about their blooms. It is amazing what observation and time spent can teach. Take some time to see.