Trimming magnolias

Discussion in 'Magnoliaceae' started by ksargent3, Aug 21, 2008.

  1. ksargent3

    ksargent3 Member

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    Location:
    Merrilleville,IN, USA
    There is a large magnolia tree in our front yard, already a mature tree when we moved in ten years ago. The problem is that it has become so large that it is beginning to interfere with our sidewalk, our garage roof, and we are unsure of the timing or extent of trimming without killing the tree. It is beautiful and we are amateurs. We live in NW Indiana. Sould we rely on professionals and not trim it ourselves. Please advise us if you are knowledgeable.
     
  2. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    Presumably a deciduous magnolia. Very difficult to cut these back much without spoling them. Need to talk to somebody that knows what to do. Look for International Society of Arboriculture certification for at least some measure of assurance. During interview(s) listen for comments about requirements of magnolias specifically. Look up pruning of magnolias in pruning books beforehand, so you know what they should be saying and what is feasible.
     
  3. jimmyq

    jimmyq Well-Known Member 10 Years

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    Indeed. They tend to respond to pruning with copious regrowth at the pruning wounds. Suckering so to speak, pruning dose is important. I find that pruning in late summer or early fall gets somewhat less regrowth rather than pruning after bloom. You may end up sacrificing some of next years flowering by timing it that way though.

    If there is clearance issues consider removing one or two large branches right back to the branch collar at the trunk rather than tip pruning.
     
  4. ksargent3

    ksargent3 Member

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    Thank you. The information is very helpful.
     

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