Pruning Magnolia Shrubs: Timing and Selective Method

When to Prune

Magnolias (shrub or tree forms) should be pruned after flowering finishes. This avoids removing next year's buds.

How to Prune

• Use selective cuts: remove crossing, dead, or overly long branches first.
• Step back often; prune in stages to avoid over-reduction.
• Make cuts just above a bud or lateral branch.

Key Principle

Magnolias heal slowly. Less is more—never remove more than 1/3 of canopy in one year.