Shaping a new southern magnolia

Question

I have a columnar shaped Southern Magnolia that was planted in March. I would like to trim it into a fuller more round shape. I live in Lake Wylie SC or zone 6 in the Piedmont. It is currently blooming toward the base. Can I trim off a few inches on the top to help it begin to bush out?

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Answer 1

I'm not sure you should do that. From the photo it appears to be a hybrid like 'Alta' that was propagated to achieve that columnar form. If you head it back, even a few inches, you will distort the natural form, and may not achieve what you intend to. If it is what I think it is, it won't take readily to spreading out too much. If you are not sure about the variety, maybe wait and see how it wants to grow would be a good approach.