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Advice on Magnolia

TheveggardenerTheveggardener Posts: 1,057
in Problem solving
I like to know if you think I should cut out the lower shoot on my Magnolia. It is growing up through the middle. If you think it should be cut off when would be the best time to do this, it is in full bud. I'm holding the one I'm thinking of cutting out. Thanks for any advice.

Posts

  • BorderlineBorderline Posts: 4,700
    I don't think you should prune that branch you showed in your second photo. It's rather low down and mature and if you re-pot carefully, to adjust the base, the whole plant can be more even and less weighted down to one side.

    Without seeing the whole plant, it's difficult to see the issue, but I assume it might be lopsided or some branches are rubbing or crossing? If that is the issue, I think re-potting to have the plant sit more upright can help, especially if it is less than a meter in height.

    Smaller branches that cross or rub can be pruned out in the summer time, avoid doing anything now.
  • TheveggardenerTheveggardener Posts: 1,057
    Borderline, The plant is straight it's just the way I've taken the photo. The branch in question goes straight up through the middle of the plant. You are correct there a several branches that cross over that is one of the reasons for thinking of cutting it off.
  • Lizzie27Lizzie27 Posts: 12,494
    Personally, I think you should prune that branch right out. If it is growing straight up through the middle it will might cause problems later. Not now though, wait until it's flowered and in late March/early April when it is in leaf, do it then.  Is it a Magnolia Stellata?
    North East Somerset - Clay soil over limestone
  • TheveggardenerTheveggardener Posts: 1,057
    Thanks for the name and advice Lizzie27. I was going to go out and do it now so I'm glad I read your post first.
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