Why Is My Magnolia Tree Bare Of Leaves But Has Leaves Growing Out Of Limbs?

Question

For the past few years, our magnolia tree has had fewer and fewer leaves each year. This year, it didn’t get any blossoms or leaves. Then later in the spring, it started to sprout leaves from the limbs (as seen in the photos below). We had a really wet spring and were wondering if the abundance of rain had anything to do with what appears to be an encouraging sign. What’s wrong with the tree? Will the tree make it? What do you recommend? Thank you.

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Answer 1

This is a case of old age and improper pruning when the tree was young. Magnolias do not grow this way naturally. Branching was forced on the young tree, and lower branches were eventually pruned away. This leads to the "spidery" appearance you see now.

From here, pruning will be necessary. Take no more than 1/3 of the tree within about a month of each pruning. Prune twice, and the branches should be much shorter. If this does not force branching from the branches, and it continues from the branch crotches then you can remove the rest of the longer branches.

If branching does occur further out, then you can remove the new growth from the branch crotches. This is the option that you want, but nature doesn't always oblige.

Restorative pruning of Magnolia is not straightforward and will depend on where you can force new growth. Pruning will be best done during dormancy.

Here is an article to help you with the tree's care once you get it back in check:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/magnolia/magnolia-tree-care.htm