How to Prune a Jane Magnolia

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Things You'll Need

  • Ladder

  • Pruning saw

A Jane magnolia grows to a mature height of 10 to 15 feet high and approximately 6 to 15 feet in diameter. It is a moderate-sized tree that blooms beautiful purple and red flower blooms during the spring and summer months. The best time to prune a Jane magnolia is after the tree blooms and the blooms die off for the remainder of the summer and fall seasons. Pruning will encourage new growth for the next growing season and allow you to manage and prevent rotting, decaying and diseased limbs.

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Step 1

Inspect the tree branches for signs of rot, bark loss and excessive moss. Cut those branches away from the tree at the trunk with a tree saw. Take care not to cut into the trunk with the saw as this could damage the tree.

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Step 2

Inspect for tree branches that cross over the center of the trunk and grow the wrong way. Cut any crossing branch off at the trunk with the tree saw.

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Step 3

Inspect for and remove all branches that could pose a tripping hazard for anyone waling by the tree. This includes branches within the first 1 to 2 feet off the ground or branches that grow downward and touch the ground. Not all trees will experience this issue. If your tree does not or your tree is in an area with no traffic, you can forgo this step.

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Step 4

Trim the ends of the branches to create a rounded canopy. Focus on branches that have grown longer than the shorter branches and trim them to length with the tree saw.

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