How to Prune Espalier Magnolias

Espalier magnolias are magnolia trees that have been trained along a wire or trellis, usually flush with the side of a fence or house. Magnolia trees, especially small ones like the Little Gem dwarf magnolia, is a good espalier specimen since it only grows about 30 feet tall and is easily trained. The espalier form comes from France as a way to save space when planting fruit and ornamental trees. Pruning is needed to maintain the shape of an espalier magnolia.

Things You'll Need

• Pruners
• String

Instructions

1. Cut off any small or large branches with the pruners that are not part of the espalier design of the magnolia tree. Cut the branches off at the trunk of the tree. Prune these branches off in the early spring or mid summer.

2. Bend the branches you want to incorporate into the magnolia's espalier design and tie them in place with a string. Loosen the string if it constricts the growth of the branches.

3. Cut back any branches that over reach the espalier magnolia's design. Cut the branches back to within the confines of the design with the pruners.

4. Pinch back any new unwanted growth throughout the summer with you fingers.

References

• North Carolina State University: Espalier
• University of Florida; Magnolia Grandiflora: Southern Magnolia; Edward F. Gilman and Dennis G. Watson
• French Gardening: The Fine Art of Espalier -- Part I