Hello there, I need some advice on when is the best time to prune a deciduous magnolia tree. I have a couple in my garden that need some severe atention because they starting to block the light in our living room. I do not want to loose the flowers but i am willing to sacrifise them if this is the only route to take. Many thanks, John.
Timing is secondary to fact that in general severe pruning will not be appreciated, responded to with vigorous watersprouts. Mature magnolias are one of the many garden specimens that are really almost 'hands off' if they are not to be spoiled. If yours just aren't working where they are they may have to be removed. As always, it depends: maybe in this case just taking out a few branches next to the house would provide adequate relief. Try to get a qualified person out to make an estimate, see what is possible. The more estimates the better, half a dozen will be starting to give you a good picture of appropriate cost and approach.
