Monticello Garden Club plants “Little Gem”

Heather Ainsley ECB Publishing, Inc. On Friday, Jan. 19, in recognition of Florida Arbor Day, the Monticello Garden Club gathered in the flower beds of the historical Wirick-Simmons House to plant a new tree. The tree, a Little Gem Magnolia, was carefully planted by Mr. Henry Ulee, who regularly tends the grounds and was hired to assist. After planting, the sapling was nestled snuggly with pine straw to help protect it from the cold. When mature, this tree will reach 20-30 feet tall, and approximately 10 to 12 feet wide. Unlike the larger variety, the “Southern Magnolia,” from which it is cultivated, the Little Gem Magnolia can produce its first beautiful blooms within the first two