Magnolia Tree - Ask Extension
Hello. I have a 4 year old Magnolia tree that a buck gourd last fall. We fenced it to help preserve it from further damage. The buds did not leaf out ...
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Magnolia Tree #907610
Asked June 28, 2025, 1:11 PM EDT
Hello. I have a 4 year old Magnolia tree that a buck gourd last fall. We fenced it to help preserve it from further damage. The buds did not leaf out and it looked pretty dead, until we got all this rain. Near the base I have nice big leaves. My question is: should I prune this back this fall, to remove the upper portion of the tree that appears dead or just leave over the winter to see if it will bud out again? I know Magnolias can be sensitive. Thank you!
Shannon Nelson
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
Sorry should say, 'gored' not gourd!! Thank you!
Hi Shannon,
That central branch looks ver damaged or dead. You can check on the viability of other branches by seeing if twig ends break off when bent and by scraping a small area of bark off to see if the cambium underneath is still green.
The tree probably died back because this past winter we had no persistent layer of snow to protect tree roots. That followed a fall drought. If it’s dry in fall, give your trees a drink right up until the ground freezes.
You could cut the magnolia back if you want but it will be a long time before you have a flowering tree. If you want faster results, you should replace it.
Good luck.
