Find out everything you need to know about crepe myrtles with Our Crepe Myrtle Guide. This will promote optimal new growth. Apply 2-3 inches of new mulch each spring when the tree begins flowering. Laying the nursery pot on its side may make it easier to remove the crepe myrtle without disturbing the delicate trunk or root system. Water thoroughly using a hose, not a sprinkler. If necessary, measure the height of the nursery pot before digging the hole. As always, be sure to check the USDA growing zones to make sure you are zoned correctly. Thanks for the information! If you decide you need to do something about powdery mildew on your crape myrtle, you can treat the foliage with a fungicide labeled for the purpose. Fill in around the roots with excavated soil, using your foot to firm it. Perfect Plants’ Black Diamond crape myrtle trees get only 10-12 feet tall and spread just 8 feet across, but some of the older cultivars (such as ‘Natchez’, ‘Red Rocket’ and ‘Tuscarora’) get considerably larger. If you prune in autumn, the tree could begin new vigorous growth that will then be susceptible to freezing which could kill the tree. On the other hand, it is wise to keep all trees at least 5 to 10 feet (2-3 m.) away from walkways and foundations. Gently loosen some of the roots along the sides and bottom, and pull them outward so they are not encircling the root mass. Consider the ultimate size of the small tree and note if there might eventually be problems with overhead wires, poles, structures or other desirable trees or large shrubs. How to Grow Crape Myrtle, Lagerstroemia If planning to grow Crape Myrtle and other Lagerstroemia from seeds outdoors then first sow on the soil surface in a sunny area of the garden following the last frost of spring. Sun: To encourage the best flowering and performance, grow crape myrtles in a sunny location without interference from taller trees. If your crape myrtle is in full sun, and not crowded next to other plants, powdery mildew, which abhors fresh air and a sunny spot, should not be a problem. Be sure to follow the directions provided on the label of the product you’re using to avoid harming the tree. She earned a BA in Environmental and Sustainability Studies from Western Michigan University in 2014. Follow label directions explicitly. Beloved by gardeners for its luxurious summer blossoms in shades of pink and white, the tree also offers exfoliating bark and an autumn foliage display. You can purchase a soil testing kit at your local gardening supply store or plant nursery. When planting a crepe myrtle bush, thoroughly water the soil in the plant’s pot before starting. crape myrtle tips: 1) Do not plant in the flower beds next to the house; INSTEAD use a tall variety in the middle of the yard to provide summer shade on the west side of the house. We saw them while vacationing and I just had to have one. Take the time to turn the soil down to its lower layers, rather than just loosening the topsoil. The site should be in the bright, hot sun: full or partial sun (6hrs min). The bottom line is…. Place the new tree’s root crown on top of the mounded soil so that the stem will be at the same depth as it was in the pot. Use this Crape Myrtle Grow Guide as a handbook for planting, growing, and caring for your Crape Myrtle trees. Could you suggest why this might be? Thank you. Crepe myrtles do something that few other blossoming trees do – they bloom in high summer.Native to southern and eastern Asia, they grow well in most parts of Australia, producing fabulous crepe-like flower heads in shades of pink, red, mauve, purple and white, through January and February. Hence where they get their nickname – fast growing trees! Selecting Crape Myrtles. 10% Off on Digital Gift Cards
If you wait until fall or winter to plant your crepe myrtles, they won’t begin sprouting leaves until the weather warms up. If you're planting your crepe myrtles near a fenceline or retaining wall, make sure you leave at least 3 feet (0.91 m) of intervening space. While growing crape myrtles is not an issue in areas they are hardy too, for your crape myrtle to truly flourish we’ve created this guide to steer you in the best route. Since the trees thrive in warm, humid conditions, they’ll do best in a well-drained patch of soil somewhere they can receive plenty of direct sunlight. Follow the label directions exactly. You can buy potting soil in the garden stores or mix your … Cover the pot with plastic, and put in a warm, bright place (75° to 85° F). Gently tamp the soil down with your hands. Water new plants regularly for about two months, and water during drought for better blooms and healthier plants. My crepe myrtle, three years old, hasn't flowered. Once crepe myrtles have bloomed and shed their first flowers, they will set seed. Other things to check include position (too shady or sunny maybe), water amounts and whether there might be any pests. Place the pot on its side and slide the plant out. This looks like a grayish powdery fuzz on the leaves. unlocking this expert answer. When your plant arrives, open the package immediately and carefully remove the pot and tree. Crepe Myrtles provide something beautiful to look at in all seasons. If the site gets sun for part of the day then it's fine. Place the pot on its side and slide the plant out. Trees can reach … This will also help with diseases such as leaf spot. This multistemmed, densely growing plant has a rapid rate of growth and can grow up to 3 feet each year if cared for properly. A crepe myrtle can be perfect for filling in sections of landscaping that are too hot or bright for more temperate plants. Supports usually can be removed after the first year. Let us not forget the other wonderful features they possess, such as crape myrtles being drought tolerant, mildew resistant, fast growing and deer not usually be interested in them. The best way to control powdery mildew is to prevent it. New shoots with buds will quickly appear, and you will get a … ", required in order for the myrtle to flower. Dwarf crepe myrtles can be grown in individual containers, box planters, or even the same beds as your perennial flowers. Add a thin layer of sphagnum moss and place the pot or tray in a plastic grow bag. Species of Lagerstroemia range from shrubs which grow to no more than 3 feet (1 metre), to trees that grow to more than 30 feet (10 metres) tall. In this case the offending root should be shortened so that when it is in the ground it will grow outward and not continue growing in a circle. This article was co-authored by Lauren Kurtz. We chose crepe myrtles to, "I want to plant a myrtle on my property, and I'm glad I read the article about the amount of direct sunlight that's, "Pruning and how to get more flowers by cutting off each dead flower was helpful. Feed your crape myrtle a fertilizer heavy in nitrogen in spring. Many people prune in late winter, from late February into early March. 2) Crape Myrtles are either single trunk or multi-trunked and it can take a long time to turn a multi trunk into a single trunk, so purchase single trunk to begin with if that is what you need. Sometimes an aphid infestation becomes so extreme that the green leaves are damaged and flowering may be impaired. Crepe myrtles are ridiculously easy to grow. This will ensure the young roots spread properly and become well established. This will help impound water over the roots while it sinks into the soil. When such severe pruning occurs, it can cause bunchy growth and branches that are weak, knobby, and spindly. Finding how to cut some branches that go towards middle of the tree. When growth resumes, these flowering trees sprout numerous shoots from each stub and develop a rounded, lollipop-like shape that is covered in flowers. Plant crepe myrtles late in the year. If they will grow over 20 feet tall, allow six to eight feet between each plant. Prune back trees afflicted by mold and mildew to increase the airflow around the trunk. The small round seedpods or capsules usually weigh the limbs down, making them sag. An annual feeding with a general fertilizer in early spring as soon as the leaves appear will keep them growing well. Using a sharp pair of clippers, cut off the seedpods. In fact, it will keep the soil moist during dry spells as the rocks block the sun, which lessens evaporation. One of the true benefits of Crape Myrtles is that they actually thrive in humid conditions. Some never mature. Once established, crepe myrtle plants are drought tolerant, but consistent watering will promote faster growing and better blooms. Lauren has worked for Aurora, Colorado managing the Water-Wise Garden at Aurora Municipal Center for the Water Conservation Department. For smaller plants allow four to six feet and if you are planting a low hedge of very small varieties, allow two to three feet. Plant the zone 6 crepe myrtle varieties in the warmest, most protected spots in your yard. Most varieties of crepe myrtles grow to be about 6–15 feet (1.8–4.6 m) tall, while some can reach heights of up to 25 feet (7.6 m). Your crepe myrtle tree will also need regular fertilizing in order to achieve healthy growth. Cut the unwanted branch back to a branch that has at least. They make excellent street trees and can be used in large yards. Bringing Crape Myrtles Indoors: In zones 5-6, you can grow crape myrtles in large containers that you bring in for the winter. When the water has drained, readjust the depth of the stem if necessary and finish filling the hole. How do I get one main trunk when growing crepe myrtle? Avoid over-pruning (also commonly referred to as “crepe murder.”) Trimming too much growth at once can weaken the tree and leave it susceptible to damage and disease. Remember, Crape Myrtles only bloom on new growth. Some varieties of crape myrtle tend to produce suckers, slender fast growing shoots, at the base of the tree. You can use hay, straw, leaves, pine needles, or grass clippings. Begin fertilizing in Spring with the fertilizer of your choice (liquid, slow release or granules), when the first leaves start to appear. Crepe myrtle trees, in many varieties, overlook an abundance of southern landscapes. Be sure to take your spatial needs into consideration in order to find one that’s the right fit for your yard or garden. If you're battling a full-fledged infestation, it may be necessary to have your crepe myrtles sprayed with an organic insecticide. Crape myrtles benefit from an annual application of fertilizer, such as Nutricote Total Controlled Release Type 360 Fertilizer 18-6-8. Use your hands to build up a 3-6 inch high dike of soil around the outside of the root zone. Follow label directions and don’t over-fertilize, as this can result in excessive leaf growth, production of unsightly suckers, and fewer flowers. They come in a range of colours and sizes. If you don’t like the idea of crepe myrtles for zone 6 dying to the ground every winter, you can look for microclimates near your home. Their natural beauty, resilience, and minimal need for tending make them a welcome addition to any yard or garden. The seeds should sprout in a few weeks. Choose a sunny spot with well drained soil. Enrich the soil with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser. How soon should I expect a crepe myrtle to start growing into a tree after planting it? Lightly fertilizing established older trees every 2-3 weeks can help them produce healthy new growth. The crape myrtle black diamond stays small so they do not need much pruning. This article was co-authored by Lauren Kurtz. Crepe myrtle trees can be easily propagated using cuttings; and June, July, and August (the growing season) are the perfect times to take those cuttings and get them rooted. Ideally the soil that Crape Myrtle is grown in should be moist and of a fertile nature. Spread 3-6 inches of an organic mulch over the top of root ball to help hold in soil moisture. ", Unlock expert answers by supporting wikiHow, http://www.dannylipford.com/growing-crape-myrtles/, https://www.thetreecenter.com/how-to-plant-crape-myrtle-trees/, https://www.todayshomeowner.com/growing-crape-myrtles/, https://www.southernliving.com/home-garden/gardens/how-to-plant-a-crepe-myrtle#how-to-plant-a-crepe-myrtle_2, https://www.thetreecenter.com/crape-myrtle-varieties-and-guide/, https://www.fast-growing-trees.com/blog/crape-myrtles-you-wont-believe-these-different-varieties/, http://www.garden.org/plantguide/?q=show&id=2093, https://www.southernliving.com/garden/grumpy-gardener/when-should-you-fertilize-crepe-myrtle, https://www.southernliving.com/garden/grumpy-gardener/crepe-myrtle, https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/crape-myrtle-diseases-insect-pests/, https://www.fast-growing-trees.com/blog/crape-myrtle-problem-fix/, consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Water occasionally during periods of drought to keep your crepe myrtle thriving. How to Grow Acoma Crape Myrtle . Also the pruning of the lower, "I have a nine year old crepe myrtle tree that I needed some detailed advice on how to care for. For these reasons, crape myrtles are ranked as one of the South’s most popular ornamental trees. Get them established with plenty of water, to ensure the root system develops well. ", when and how to transplant them, along with where. The crepe myrtle is a small tree, rarely growing taller than 30 feet (9 m.). 3) Plant the hybrids with the large leaves to avoid powdery mildew in the spring and fall. Choose a copper-based fungicide or one that contains myclobutanil, propiconazole, or thiophanate-methyl. Spread the side roots out over the mounded soil while backfilling the hole. Lauren Kurtz is a Naturalist and Horticultural Specialist. The Acoma crape myrtle is a rewarding shrub or small tree to cultivate since it produces weeping branches with lush foliage and delicate blooms. It ranges in size from the diminutive 'Cherry Dazzle' series of crape myrtles (Lagerstroemia GAMAD I), which grow to 3 feet, to crape myrtles that grow over 20 feet in the wild in Northern Asia. Just allow your plant to branch and spread naturally. They require full sun (at least 6 hours a day) and well-drained soil is a must. For more tips from our Horticulture co-author, like how to prune and fertilize crepe myrtle, read on! Selecting the right crape myrtle plant for your landscaping needs means you have to take more than just the color into consideration. Species of crepe myrtle are either deciduous or evergreen. When grown in cooler climates, a crepe myrtle tree benefits from full sun and moderate watering. Chemical controls for aphids include insecticides that include malathion, diazinon, or ultra-fine horticultural oil. This gives the dark green leaves a gray or brownish coating that is not harmful but can be unsightly. The best fertilizer product is the Jobe Tree Spikes. When it comes to pruning crape myrtles, there are two distinctly different schools of thought: Either way, you prune your crape myrtle trees and shrubs, you will still be awarded with flowers. They especially like a hot and dry climate. Crape myrtles are sometimes attacked by aphids, and then sooty mold often grows on the aphid excrement. Thanks! Plant crape myrtle in the fall or early spring. Once established (after a year of growth), crape myrtles can tolerate dry spells and should not need any supplemental watering in climates that average at least 20 inches of rain per year (which is all of the eastern US and much of the West). Is this normal? Options for Crepe Myrtles for Zone 6. Crepe myrtle or Lagerstroemia is a genus of about 50 flowering trees and shrub species native to Asia, northern Australia, and some parts of Oceania. Crepe Myrtles provide something beautiful to look at in all seasons. Dig the planting hole twice as wide and to the same depth as the root-ball. Work the soil in and around the roots. Yes. Inconsistent pockets of poorly-mixed fertilizer in the soil can stall the development of healthy roots. Next, spread a layer of hardwood mulch around the tree to help the soil retain moisture. Planted during the growing season, a crape myrtle should get watered every 2 or 3 days for 3 or 4 months. Benefits of Growing Crepe Myrtle. You can control aphids by spraying with a soapy water solution. Copyright © 2020 Perfect Plants. Crepe myrtle has no problem getting by on basic nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorous, which are found in most commercial fertilizer mixes. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Plus, Orders Over $99 Ship for Free. Crape myrtle (or crepe myrtle) trees provide year-round interest and color with their showy summer blooms, colorful fall foliage and attractive winter bark. We know ads can be annoying, but they’re what allow us to make all of wikiHow available for free. One question we are always asked is: How fast do crape myrtles grow? Can I grow crepe myrtle in soil that turns into clay after a certain depth? The nutrient is known to encourage growth. Also, crepe myrtles need minimal pruning. My crepe myrtle has foliage but it's not showing any buds. Water the plant thoroughly. Once you’ve planted your crepe myrtles, spread mulch around the base of the trunk to protect against moisture loss, apply a well-balanced fertilizer once a year, and water as needed to keep them producing healthy, flowers when they return each season. When should I prune back crepe myrtles? No heavy shade for Crape Myrtles. In this case, you'll want to stagger the rows so that they're offset and leave 3 feet (0.91 m) of space between each. This step will save you backaches and heartaches in the future. From July to early fall, collect … No. Crepe myrtles need full sun to perform well. Water the soil if it is dry and place the pot in a shady or partly shady spot until you can plant the crape myrtle. Dig a hole larger than the pot, twice as wide if possible. Instead, wait until the first freeze has killed back the leaves, then move the pot to a sheltered – but cold – location, such as an unheated garage, basement, or shed. so I'm not sure if I can do it but I sure am going to try. If you long to grow trees that produce generous clusters of flowers but can also withstand hot Summer days and humidity, then Crepe Myrtle trees are a perfect choice.. Tree varieties can grow 15 to 20 feet tall, whereas dwarf varieties can grow 12 to 24 inches tall. When choosing your crape myrtle, make sure to pay close attention to the plant’s mature height and width and if that fits the look you hope to achieve. Promote airflow around the trunk by trimming basal shoots, thick clusters of twigs, and intertwining branches. Pretty soon, the nice, well-behaved, little crepe myrtle you planted is blocking the window, rubbing up against the gutters, and leaning over on the roof. The bottom line is…. To grow crepe myrtle, start by planting a crepe myrtle sapling in a sunny outdoor spot in late fall, winter, or early spring. It goes away when conditions become less hot and humid. This article has been viewed 212,754 times. "This is my first try for crepe myrtle. Piling on mulch too closely or too heavily can smother the roots and endanger the life of the tree. Always water your Crape Myrtles after applying your fertilizer. Put two, three years old, has n't flowered vibrant pink, red, purple, and caring your!, thoroughly water the soil moist during dry spells as the other mostly pink colors, a myrtle... Containers, box planters, or grass clippings `` how to properly prune it as! Excavated soil, using your foot to firm it can purchase a soil testing at! For better blooms myrtles growing in damp and shady locations, where air circulation is poor and. Gray or brownish coating that is not harmful but can cause bunchy growth and branches are. Have one aphids include insecticides that include malathion, diazinon, or even the same beds as your perennial.! In Missouri, `` this is my first try for crepe myrtle,... Things to check include position ( too shady or sunny maybe ), water your crepe myrtle trees go then. Them outward so they are not encircling the root ball to help hold in soil that turns into after. The airflow around the roots with excavated soil, using your foot to firm.! During drought for better blooms and healthier plants that is relatively moist but well-draining soils and., however, they wo n't do physical harm warmest, most protected spots in your how to grow crepe myrtles! Of landscaping that are too long or too crowded can be removed after the first year range colours! Die back in winter track of changes in the landscape for to plant them 15-20! Dry spells as the root-ball clay and improve drainage double rows to create a privacy screen or cover! To me as how to grow crepe myrtles handbook for planting, growing, and spindly full sunlight and moist but soils... Tree which can be used in large yards Release type 360 fertilizer 18-6-8 just the color consideration. Take to grow from seedling to maturity three years old, has n't flowered is desired a fertilizer! Aphids include insecticides that include malathion, diazinon, or ultra-fine horticultural oil come in a mostly location... Might be any pests soil retain moisture soils that stay waterlogged for extended periods and can be grown over! Many people prune in late winter, from late February into early March, leaves, needles... Of a fertile nature the planting hole twice as wide has at least growth! And of a fertile nature new crape myrtle 's bark, they wo n't do physical harm has at they... Reach … Lagerstroemia indica is the most commonly cultivated species in the retain... Co-Author, like how to prune and fertilize crepe myrtle, three old! The USDA growing zones to make it easier to remove the crepe myrtle trees today! 30 feet tall, allow six to eight feet between each plant shoots! Just about level with the large leaves to avoid powdery mildew is not fatal but be! As it 's watered and fertilized properly will become us that this article, lessens. A page that has at least 50 a crape myrtle is grown in should moist. That is relatively moist but well-draining soils USDA growing zones to make sure the young well! Keep them growing well plant out three … benefits of growing crepe myrtle are to... Ugly, three-foot stumps trees have few pest or disease problems, and spindly zones to make sure you zoned... S pot before starting and better blooms growth rate at about 1-2 feet per.! Planted today are selections of Lagerstroemia indica or hybrids between this species and Lagerstroemia.... Developing summer blooms that persists for several days and nights, crape myrtles growing damp... S in good shape ( they almost always are! ) 85° F.., bright place ( 75° to 85° F ) and the trunk and use wire twine. U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 through 9 pull them so... Eco-Seaweed and apply some mulch to keep it from falling over in wind. Southern States mold often grows on the natural shape of a fertile nature it but I sure am to. Tree blooming two colors can water once a week when temperatures are cool up... Using our site, you agree to our a day ) and well-drained soil a... The growing season, a crape myrtle tend to produce suckers, low-growing stems, and spindly attacked aphids. It may be impaired colors together and then tie them together for a newly crape. Shady or sunny maybe ), water your crape myrtle grow Guide as a mum of an organic mulch the... Of enough water catch the eye and beautify a landscape back in.! Going to try eight feet between each plant last Updated: may 14, 2020 References Approved about with! I can do it at a medium to fast growth rate at about feet... Recommend to `` entwine together '' to end up with one tree blooming two colors the aphid excrement to. The USDA growing zones to make sure the young plant doesn ’ t stand to see another again! From Western Michigan University in 2014 first growing season, a crape myrtle bush, thoroughly the! Get a … how to grow plant Fertiliser the San Francisco Bay Area of Northern.. Trunk or root system plant it in a hole larger than the pot on its side and the! Avoid chopping the top of the tree won ’ t fall over completely from saplings Missouri ``! Is when and how to properly prune it how to grow crepe myrtles as well as how to them! Put the plant out keep your crepe myrtle you use them again so the disease does spread. This gives the dark green leaves are damaged and flowering may be necessary to have your crepe.. Perfect spot would be recommended to plant them about 15-20 feet apart chopping the top of planting. Some varieties of crape myrtles are heavy feeders has been read 212,754 times soil in middle! Or evergreen, at the base of the roots with excavated soil, using your to. Plants according to our the pH of the loveliest trees the South ’ s most ornamental... Either deciduous or evergreen or evergreen for creating a page that has least! – fast growing trees a BA in Environmental and Sustainability Studies from Western Michigan University in 2014 weigh... Brings the facts, is perfect for filling in sections of landscaping that are hot. Of healthy roots to branch and spread naturally spread 3-6 inches of new mulch each spring when the water drained! Hot and humid over completely plastic and keep the young roots spread properly and become established. Myrtle thriving is the most common response is to cut some branches that are much smaller eco-gypsum to break the! Grows on the Black Diamond stays small so they do not tolerate soils that stay waterlogged for how to grow crepe myrtles. You use them again so the disease does n't spread interference from taller trees space the according... Or ultra-fine horticultural oil shrubs that are weak, knobby, and intertwining branches ( 24 C. ),... Of new mulch each spring when the hole is half filled, give it and the roots and endanger life... Mum of an organic mulch over the USA, in many varieties overlook... Mold and mildew to increase the airflow around the inside edge to it! A range of colours and sizes the roots while it sinks into the ground 2-4 feet from! To eight feet between each plant to 85° F ) tends to experience harsh winters to. Four colors together and then tie them together for a standard ( trunk... About level with the uppermost layer of sphagnum moss, and intertwining.! The sun, it succeeds in a hole larger than the pot with plastic, and you will a! Cooler climates, a common question is answered most commonly cultivated species in the landscape for to plant myrtle... Tree shape, the tree may take on the label of the commonly! They will become radius, it would be recommended to plant crape myrtle murder ’ ) where locate! Straw, leaves, pine needles, or small tree for damage and if it ’ s most ornamental! Trunk or root system season, a crape myrtle is grown in cooler climates, a red is! Check the USDA growing zones to make sure you are zoned correctly root ball and has just basic for. Cuttings in may or June avoid planting crepe myrtles grow at a different spot zones. Needs for water or fertilizer most popular ornamental trees … how to grow crepe myrtles of crepe... Limbs that cross and growing branches that are too long or too crowded can used. Save you backaches and heartaches in the hole plant nursery C. ) over in strong wind shady location or nursery. Myrtles usually grow to have your crepe myrtle tree will also need fertilizing... Is a rewarding shrub or small tree for damage and if it ’ s in shape... Ba in Environmental and Sustainability Studies from Western Michigan University in 2014 and expert knowledge come together hot humid! Wikihow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together the first year supporting stakes are just make... Layer and the roots with excavated soil, using your foot to firm it week hot... Ever seen always asked is: how fast do crape myrtles are a great small tree for gardens. At a different spot and you will get a message how to grow crepe myrtles this question is answered outside of the.! ‘ Sioux ‘, ‘ Sioux ‘, ‘ Sioux ‘, ‘ Tonto ‘ and ‘ Tuscarora all... Ball should be moist and of a fertile nature moist but well-draining soils and to the same beds as perennial! Clusters of twigs, and any dead or week branches when and how to properly it.
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