Little Gem Magnolia

[Carlauberger]

We purchased a Little Gem Magnolia tree from a garden center about 18 months ago and planted it with immediate problems. The leaves soon fell off and very slowly started getting new leaves. Well this spring we thought we were in business but all the new growth is straight up the spine of the tree. Nothing on the branches more than 6 inches from the main trunk. Are the branches dead? The tree is about 7-8 feet tall. Any help would be appreciated on where to go from here. Thanks

 

[Raintree]

Yes the leafless limbs are toast. Very common problem with new trees is poor water management. Most are guilty of over watering, leaves turn yellow and drop soon after planting.
Magnolias are hardy, gently trim out the dead and let it grow, it will fill in over time.