They do have some susceptibility to aphids and scale. The main disease problems with crape myrtles are fungal leaf spot and powdery mildew. During the first few growing seasons, they should be watered regularly and deeply once a week, or twice a week in extremely hot weather. Once established, crape myrtles are quite drought tolerant. Apply a good layer of mulch to protect the roots during winter in colder climates. Be sure to water well after every application of fertilizer. Following that, apply a light feeding twice a month in spring and summer, as they are heavy feeders during their growing season. For established trees or shrubs, apply a slow-release fertilizer at the first signs of new growth in spring. Amendments & Fertilizer:ĭuring the first growing season (spring/summer), lightly fertilize once a month. Good drainage is required for any type of soil. Soil:Īlthough crape myrtles can be grown in virtually any soil, foliage may turn yellow if soil is too alkaline. Additionally, year after year, this creates knobby growth at the cut point that is more susceptible to disease and distracts from the beauty of the tree. Some say that this creates larger blooms the following season however, larger bloom clusters on new branches can cause them to droop and break. Spent flowers can be trimmed during the growing season to promote a second blooming.īeware of over-pruning: A common mistake is over-pruning and lopping the tops off, frequently referred to as “crape murder.” This can result in your tree or shrub putting all of its energy into producing new branches and leaves, with very little energy left for blooms. Check the plant tag information to confirm the mature size and shape of your tree. Keep pruning (and possible frustration) to a minimum by choosing one that will grow into the right size and shape naturally. Remove any crossing or branches crowding the center, as well as any dead or diseased wood. In addition to specific pruning for the shape of your tree or shrub, a good cleaning up in the winter is recommended. Shrubs: For a more natural look, very little pruning is required other than to maintain healthy branches and to thin out as needed. Multi-trunk trees: Prune to shape, not allowing the individual trunks to become crowded or touch one another, and keeping the center slightly open to allow air and light in.Single-trunk trees: Reduce side branches that could compete with the leader, as well as "basal sprouts" that emerge from the base of the plant.Learn more: Where is this species invasive in the United States?Ĭrape myrtles bloom in late spring through summer on new growth, so pruning should be done in winter when they're dormant. Check with local experts to see if planting is appropriate where you live. Invasive:Some may seed aggressively in parts of the country. Varieties available in white, and multiple shades of red, purple, and pink. July to September, with some varieties blooming until first frost. Exposure:įull sun, minimum 6 hours per day. Make sure you're choosing the appropriate crape myrtle bush or tree for your location and design. There are also smaller varieties at 6 to 12 feet tall, semi-dwarf varieties ranging from 3 to 6 feet tall, and dwarf shrubs 2 to 5 feet tall. Standard single and multi-trunk trees can grow to 20 to 30 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide, quickly growing up to 3 feet per year. If this occurs, new spring growth will emerge from below ground. Some may only be root hardy in zone 6, meaning the roots will survive the winter temperatures, but it's possible that the above-ground branches will die back completely to the ground.
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