How to Prune a Magnolia Bush
The magnolia originated in Asia but now grows in many regions of in the United States. The magnolia genus existed even before bees evolved, and the flowers were pollinated by beetles, so the plant is tough enough to fend off most infestations. Taking care of a magnolia bush is simple once they are well established. Periodic pruning to remove excessive growth and shape the plant will help keep your magnolia healthy. You can prune a magnolia right after it has finished blooming. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Cut off all dead, broken or diseased limbs at the point of origin or back to the next branch.
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Cut off any branches that block the view or brush against a building.
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Step back and visualize the shape you want the bush to have. Now cut off the portions of branches that are growing beyond the desired shape, but try to stay true to the shrub's natural growth pattern rather than cut it into a sphere or a cube.
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Look into the interior of the bush. If there are two upward trunk-like branches, remove one. Also cut out a few interior branches if they look crowded.
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Tips & Warnings
Clean and oil your pruning shears. Wipe an oily cloth on the blades and sharpen them with an oil stone if necessary.
Magnolias need only slight and infrequent pruning, so don't overdo it.
Do not "top" the bush, which means to cut it straight across to shorten it and remove all the small branches. Do not cut the bush down by more than a third of its size. Either of these actions will shock the plant and affect its health.
