Q.large magnolia appears to have died
We have a large magnolia that appears to have died on the upper top portion. How do we prune it without killing the tree? The tree gets plenty of water and good air circulation. We do have a number of underground springs running through the property to creek bed.
You can prune dead and damaged branches as soon as possible.
Pruning the remainder of the tree should wait until flowering has ended.
Here are two great links.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/magnolia/pruning-magnolia-trees.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/magnolia/magnolia-tree-care.htm