How to prune star magnolia

Immediately after flowering in early to mid spring, before leaves unfurl. Use clean, sharp loppers or a pruning saw to remove dead, crossing or rubbing branches back to a healthy lateral or the main stem. Make clean cuts to avoid tearing bark; seal large wounds with pruning paste in cool climates.

As needed; avoid annual heavy pruning — light tidying only. Star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata) is best pruned minimally — it has a naturally beautiful multi-stemmed form. Prune immediately after the white star flowers fade in early spring, before leaves emerge. Remove dead or crossing branches and rub out unwanted shoots early. Avoid heavy pruning: large cuts heal slowly and can invite disease.

Use clean, sharp loppers or a pruning saw to remove dead, crossing or rubbing branches back to a healthy lateral or the main stem. Make clean cuts to avoid tearing bark; seal large wounds with pruning paste in cool climates.