Q.Can I prune this Shrub a couple of feet
Sorry Guys, I’m no gardener but I need to reduce the height of this shrub by a couple of feet, it’s currently covered in big buds that turn into lovely big white flowers. I don’t want to kill it as it would be pretty much without any buds or leaves left on top. It grows about 2ft a year?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
This is a deciduous Magnolia tree. This does not like to be pruned, and this is especially so as the tree gets older. I notice that this has been pruned before, which leads me to believe that a light pruning may be tolerated but this should be done right after a majority of the flowers drop.
This article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/magnolia/pruning-magnolia-trees.htm