I don't know, but isn't one of the joys of a magnolia the huge umbrella shape of the mature tree? An alternative would be to adapt the planting of what's growing underneath it.

Yes you are right steragram. It is a beautiful tree. I will think of some shade loving perennials. Thank you for your wisdom.

You can either thin out the number of branches to let light in or remove all branches below a certain height. For both I would wait till all the leaves have dropped off.

I had a question about magnolia tree.
I need to saw off a low hanging branch on my magnolia tree which has lighter coloured leaves than the rest of the tree. (why?) Can I do it now? Many thanks.

Lighter coloured leaves can be a sign of stress - a general feed can help. You can prune it out now but if you want to shape a shrub then winter is best so you can see the structure.

Botanic- what should I feed it with?

Cheekygardener, I was so pleased to read your reply - I don't think you will regret it.

Mine responded well to an ericacious feed Amsterdam. Leave went much darker from pale peridot to deep green. I also supplement feed with tomatorite.

Botanic -thank you for that. Will get some feed asap.