I’m Wanting To Cut Back Our Magnolia Trees Tallest Branches.

Question

I have read that you should clean down your cutting tools with isopropyl alcohol, do I also paint/clean the cutting with the same?

Answer 1

A healthy tree should compensate for the cuts easily, so no need to seal the cuts. However, magnolias are slow to heal, so prune as minimally as possible. Sterilizing your pruning tools can help to prevent transferring any fungus, mold or other infection to these opened up areas. Here are two articles for more info:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/magnolia/pruning-magnolia-trees.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/magnolia/magnolia-tree-care.htm