How to Bring a Magnolia Tree Back to Life

Magnolia trees offer shade and vibrant blossoms.

Magnolias are a popular tree for landscaping because they require little care. According to the United States National Arboretum, there are over 80 species of this tree in the U.S. and in Asia. Average magnolia trees reach between 20 to 60 feet in height. Most varieties are evergreen with lightly fragrant white flowers. If your magnolia tree seems to be in failing health, a few practices can help you bring your tree back to life.

Things You'll Need

• Organic composting matter
• Coarse bark mulch
• Pruning shears
• Handsaw
• Shellac

Instructions

1. Add a 1- to 2-inch layer of organic composting matter to the base of the magnolia tree. Water lightly.

2. Add 2 inches of coarse bark mulch on top of the layer of organic composting matter.

3. Prune any dead branches at a 45-degree angle with sharp pruning shears, particularly at the top of the magnolia tree.

4. Examine the magnolia tree for wounds from landscaping equipment. Prune any dead limbs near the wounds. Use a handsaw and cut out any dead trunk area in and around the wound.

5. Spray shellac on the ends of all the branches pruned or cut. Spray shellac on any wounds.

Tips & Warnings

• Many varieties of magnolia trees suffer dieback at their top portions in freezing temperatures or after inclement weather exposure.

• Shellac seals branches and wounds of magnolia trees to prevent susceptibility to diseases.

• Avoid transplanting magnolia trees with trunks larger than 4 inches in diameter.

References

• YNN Rochester: Growing Magnolias
• Best Gardening: Spring Flowering Magnolias
• United States National Arboretum: Magnolia Questions and Answers