Bellevie, I don't have much first-hand experience with the BBB magnolias, as I just purchased two this spring. However, I did purchase them at the Rutgers University Gardens Spring Flower Fair with assurance that they are winter-hardy here in NJ, which can range from Zone 6-7. This is the Cook College of Agriculture and I don't think they'd steer me wrong. Everything I bought at that plant sale has exceeded my expectations. Edith Bogue is another magnolia that is evergreen and winter-hardy in this area.

Rare Find Nursery in Jackson, NJ (I'm pretty sure they're in Zone 6) has an incredible selection of magnolias you can peruse to get ideas. Their website, in case you'd like to check it out, is www.rarefindnursery.com. I WILL get down there in person some day :-)

Diane

Thanks, Diane. I've heard of Edith Bogue. If I'm not mistaken, BBB grows in a pyramid from the ground, whie EB has a visible trunk, more like the oaks I'm losing.

Decisions, decisions. Again, thanks for your good advice.

Lesley

Diane,
Great timing mentioning Rutgers cook college. They are having open house with Garden tours and a plant sale Saturday July 29th from 9am - 3 pm.
I'm so excited. My son will be attending Rutgers at that campus (not agriculture though) and I will have great excuses for visiting.

Kathy