My crepe myrtle has foliage but it's not showing any buds. All crepe myrtles grow well in Australia. It freezes here occasionally. They transplant well from a pot or buy them as a bare-rooted plant in winter. This will promote optimal new growth. Prune back trees afflicted by mold and mildew to increase the airflow around the trunk. It occurs especially on crape myrtles growing in damp and shady locations, where air circulation is poor. They especially like a hot and dry climate. Sometimes an aphid infestation becomes so extreme that the green leaves are damaged and flowering may be impaired. Plus, plant tags frequently underestimate mature heights by five feet or more. They do like well drained potting soil. Cut the unwanted branch back to a branch that has at least. Are the roots of a crepe myrtle invasive? By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. ", now know when and how to properly prune it, as well as how to make it have more blooms. 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. Crape myrtle (or crepe myrtle) trees provide year-round interest and color with their showy summer blooms, colorful fall foliage and attractive winter bark. If your desire is for a standard (single trunk) tree shape, the suckers should be pruned off as they appear. If you find the trees a warm microclimate, they may not die back in winter. When should I prune back crepe myrtles? Crepe myrtles are ridiculously easy to grow. Is it all right to arrange rocks around the tree? Plant the zone 6 crepe myrtle varieties in the warmest, most protected spots in your yard. Once they sprout, you can remove the plastic and keep the seedlings moist and in bright light as they grow. "This is my first try for crepe myrtle. Your information and care tips help tremendously. Fill a 4-inch pot with moist potting soil. Crape myrtles do best in full sun – the sunnier the spot, the better, but they should get at least 6 hours of sun each day. Crape Myrtles (Lagerstroemia indica), often referred to as the “lilacs of the South”, are among the favorites of the South due to their early spring showy flowers, colorful autumn black foliage, and, in many cases, their attractive bark. Follow the label directions exactly. ", branches was extremely informative. Crape myrtles do not tolerate soils that stay waterlogged for extended periods. First, remove suckers, low-growing stems, and any dead or week branches. The crepe myrtle is no exception. Remember: the more sun, the more blooms! unlocking this expert answer. This article was co-authored by Lauren Kurtz. This will prevent the growing trees from overtaking their surroundings. The first thing to keep in mind when you are thinking of planting crepe myrtles in containers is that a full grown tree will need a rather large container. Crape Myrtles can be grown all over the USA, in any soil type. There are 19 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. 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. Crepe myrtle trees, in many varieties, overlook an abundance of southern landscapes. You can buy potting soil in the garden stores or mix your … Your crepe myrtle tree will also need regular fertilizing in order to achieve healthy growth. The attachment on the trunk should be loose enough to allow some movement; if the trunk is not allowed to move a little in the wind it will become weak. 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. Crape Myrtles are one of the most resilient and prune-able plants I have ever seen. 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. Just allow your plant to branch and spread naturally. Crape Myrtles are one of the most resilient and prune-able plants I have ever seen. Lauren Kurtz is a Naturalist and Horticultural Specialist. The most common response is to cut back the offending tree to ugly, three-foot stumps. Crape myrtles bloom on their new growth each year, so any pruning of the main tree (as opposed to removing basal suckers) should be done during late winter when the tree is not growing. The Acoma crape myrtle is a rewarding shrub or small tree to cultivate since it produces weeping branches with lush foliage and delicate blooms. In this case, 89% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. They can be grown as a hedge to line your front yard or used as a border, along a fence line or as a street plant. Crape myrtles benefit from an annual application of fertilizer, such as Nutricote Total Controlled Release Type 360 Fertilizer 18-6-8. When you retie them, do it at a different spot. Crape Myrtles do best in Zone 6-10. You can use hay, straw, leaves, pine needles, or grass clippings. Water newly planted crape myrtles at least once a week if dormant and in cool weather, and up to five times a week if planted during hot weather or in very sandy soil. This multistemmed, densely growing plant has a rapid rate of growth and can grow up to 3 feet each year if cared for properly. Once crepe myrtles have bloomed and shed their first flowers, they will set seed. Just allow your plant to branch and spread naturally. Cover with a layer of milled sphagnum moss, and mist until damp. Powdery mildew is not fatal but can cause deformation of the leaves and stunted growth. Benefits of Growing Crepe Myrtle. Because of their intensive germination requirements, crepe myrtles headed for home gardens are almost always grown from saplings. Crepe Myrtles are a great small tree for smaller gardens. Plant crepe myrtles late in the year. What can I do to get it to grow? This page was very informative. The bottom line is…. 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. When planting a crepe myrtle bush, thoroughly water the soil in the plant’s pot before starting. She earned a BA in Environmental and Sustainability Studies from Western Michigan University in 2014. Keep the young tree well watered during its first growing season. 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. From July to early fall, collect … However, don’t treat them like houseplants. I live in Houston, Texas. Cover the pot with plastic, and put in a warm, bright place (75° to 85° F). Some varieties of crape myrtle will produce a second or even third flush of red, pink, or white flowers if the spent flower heads are cut off soon after they have finished blooming. To propagate crepe myrtle from seed, gently press the seeds into moist potting mix or composted soil using a regular sized pot or planting tray. Finding how to cut some branches that go towards middle of the tree. How far apart should I plant my crepe myrtle plants? The common crepe myrtle is a deciduous, small-to-medium shrub or small … They come in a range of colours and sizes. I hope I can do this. This article has been viewed 212,754 times. Does great framing a driveway or a fence! Crepe myrtle roots travel far and wide, spreading three … Most crepe myrtle trees planted today are selections of Lagerstroemia indica or hybrids between this species and Lagerstroemia faurei. They make excellent street trees and can be used in large yards. Choose a copper-based fungicide or one that contains myclobutanil, propiconazole, or thiophanate-methyl. Such branches won't flower. If the plant is stuck, you can slip a long-bladed knife around the inside edge to loosen it. 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. Move to a well-lit, warm location, about 75 degrees F (24 C.). Begin fertilizing in Spring with the fertilizer of your choice (liquid, slow release or granules), when the first leaves start to appear. This article has been viewed 212,754 times. This will help impound water over the roots while it sinks into the soil. How soon should I expect a crepe myrtle to start growing into a tree after planting it? When spring comes, undo them and leave them like that for a while. For these reasons, crape myrtles are ranked as one of the South’s most popular ornamental trees. With a months-long bloom period, graceful growing habit, colorful fall foliage and exfoliating bark, crape myrtle is the ultimate year-round specimen tree. You can buy potting soil in the garden stores or mix your … Some are not mature until they are at least 50. 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. Could you suggest why this might be? All Rights Reserved • Disclaimer, . Water the plant thoroughly. Then, water your crepe myrtle once a week when temperatures are cool and up to 5 times a week during hot weather. You might look into doing a soil test to see what nutrients are lacking from your soil and what type of fertilizer you should use as well as the soil pH. This looks like a grayish powdery fuzz on the leaves. Also, crepe myrtles need minimal pruning. Take the time to turn the soil down to its lower layers, rather than just loosening the topsoil. If you're battling a full-fledged infestation, it may be necessary to have your crepe myrtles sprayed with an organic insecticide. Add a thin layer of sphagnum moss and place the pot or tray in a plastic grow bag. If the plant is stuck, you can slip a long-bladed knife around the inside edge to loosen it. Check out this video on the Black Diamond Crape Myrtle varieties! To grow crepe myrtle, start by planting a crepe myrtle sapling in a sunny outdoor spot in late fall, winter, or early spring. They will grow in shade, but blooms will be sparse, and plants will get leggy. If they will grow over 20 feet tall, allow six to eight feet between each plant. Crepe myrtles trees are cold hardy to some extent but be sure to check each varieties USDA plant hardiness zone to make sure it will survive in your area. Crape myrtles like a soil that is relatively moist but still well drained. I needed to know, "How to prune and when. Though not as common as the other mostly pink colors, a red color is nothing to worry about. Your Crape Myrtle will still bloom and be beautiful so long as it's watered and fertilized properly. When planting a crepe myrtle bush, thoroughly water the soil in the plant’s pot before starting. The seeds should sprout in a few weeks. Sun: To encourage the best flowering and performance, grow crape myrtles in a sunny location without interference from taller trees. Their natural beauty, resilience, and minimal need for tending make them a welcome addition to any yard or garden. Find out everything you need to know about crepe myrtles with Our Crepe Myrtle Guide Promote airflow around the trunk by trimming basal shoots, thick clusters of twigs, and intertwining branches. No heavy shade for Crape Myrtles. During warm humid weather that persists for several days and nights, crape myrtles sometimes are attacked by a fungus called powdery mildew. Crepe myrtle has no problem getting by on basic nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorous, which are found in most commercial fertilizer mixes. But they do best in Full, Hot Sun. Avoid planting crepe myrtles at the tail end of summer. Requirements for Crepe Myrtle Plants Grown in Containers. The best way to control powdery mildew is to prevent it. Thanks! Using a sharp pair of clippers, cut off the seedpods. You can put two, three or four colors together and then tie them together for a while. Look for cold hardy species if you live in an area that tends to experience harsh winters. References My crepe myrtle, three years old, hasn't flowered. How to grow crepe myrtle is not an issue in most areas to which they are hardy, USDA Zones 9-7 (with some special varieties surviving in zone 6), as they are easy to grow in the right location. Chemical controls for aphids include insecticides that include malathion, diazinon, or ultra-fine horticultural oil. Trees can reach … Throw away any cut branches and disinfect your pruning tools before you use them again so the disease doesn't spread. If you prune in autumn, the tree could begin new vigorous growth that will then be susceptible to freezing which could kill the tree. Take note that the black diamond crape myrtle growth rate is about the same even though these dwarf varieties are mostly bush-like shrubs and trees. Water new plants regularly for about two months, and water during drought for better blooms and healthier plants. Thank you. All the leaves on my young crepe myrtle are red. Sun: To encourage the best flowering and performance, grow crape myrtles in a sunny location without interference from taller trees. Limbs that cross and growing branches that are too long or too crowded can be pruned out to maintain a desirable shape. If you wait until fall or winter to plant your crepe myrtles, they won’t begin sprouting leaves until the weather warms up. For young plants (such as the one's you will receive from our nursery), lightly fertilize once a month during the first year's growing season. 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. Some Crape Myrtles are both drought tolerant and mildew resistant such as the Muskogee Crape Myrtle or the Best Red Black Diamond and make a great addition to any landscape. Inconsistent pockets of poorly-mixed fertilizer in the soil can stall the development of healthy roots. A perfect spot would be to line driveways or fences because they provide a beautiful site for years to come. 10% Off on Digital Gift Cards Last Updated: May 14, 2020 In heavy clay soils add eco-gypsum to break up the clay and improve drainage. 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. Crepe Myrtles provide something beautiful to look at in all seasons. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Spread mulch 2 inches deep over the top. Since crape myrtles carry their blooms on new growth, you should remove old stems in the late winter or the early spring while the plant is still dormant. Crepe myrtles need full sun to perform well. No. Do I need to cut off last year's flower pods when growing crepe myrtle? 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. When the hole is half filled, give it and the roots a good soaking of water. Because adult crepe myrtles usually grow to have a 20 foot radius, it would be recommended to plant them about 15-20 feet apart. Lightly fertilize every two weeks throughout the spring and summer months. New shoots with buds will quickly appear, and you will get a … A mature Crepe Myrtle “tree” can grow to be 30 feet tall in the right conditions. This practice involves chopping away all the stems to an even height, leaving nothing but stubs. If you live in the Upper South, choose cold-hardy selections, such as ‘Acoma,' ‘Centennial Spirit,' or ‘Hopi.' How do I get one main trunk when growing crepe myrtle? Spread mulch 2 inches deep over the top. Dig the planting hole twice as wide and to the same depth as the root-ball. Apply 2-3 inches of new mulch each spring when the tree begins flowering. When grown in cooler climates, a crepe myrtle tree benefits from full sun and moderate watering. 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. 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. When the water has drained, readjust the depth of the stem if necessary and finish filling the hole. % of people told us that this article helped them. Planting Crape Myrtles. Other things to check include position (too shady or sunny maybe), water amounts and whether there might be any pests. Avoid performing "crepe murder." Crapes pruned this way are good for borders and hedges where uniform height is desired. 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. They require full sun (at least 6 hours a day) and well-drained soil is a must. so I'm not sure if I can do it but I sure am going to try. Did you know you can read expert answers for this article? Do crepe myrtle plants lose their leaves in the winter? You can purchase a soil testing kit at your local gardening supply store or plant nursery. Plant your crepe myrtle a sufficient distance away from your home, tall fence lines, and other objects that might cast too much shade. Crepe Myrtles provide something beautiful to look at in all seasons. If you are planting a screen of Crape Myrtles, space the plants according to how tall they will become. Crape myrtles are, botanically speaking, a tall-growing deciduous shrub that can be trained to look like a tree with one or two main trunks. With crape myrtles being a popular plant in the landscape for many people, a common question is when and how to prune them. Beautiful in Any Season. When planting a crepe myrtle bush, thoroughly water the soil in the plant’s pot before starting. Plant the zone 6 crepe myrtle varieties in the warmest, most protected spots in your yard. They transplant well from a pot or buy them as a bare-rooted plant in winter. Remember, Crape Myrtles only bloom on new growth. I feel like I will, "I have numerous baby crepes growing out of a stump and is spreading outside of it into the grass. Southern gardeners love their crepe myrtles for summer bloom, attractive, peeling bark and limited crepe myrtle care. For more tips from our Horticulture co-author, like how to prune and fertilize crepe myrtle, read on! This myrtle, like all myrtles, thrives in full sunlight and moist but well-draining soils. Avoid chopping the top of the plant (so-called ‘crape myrtle murder’). There are many variations of color for crepe myrtle trees. Gently tamp the soil down with your hands. Lauren Kurtz is a Naturalist and Horticultural Specialist. The small round seedpods or capsules usually weigh the limbs down, making them sag. Lichens and Crape Myrtle Care Although gray-green lichens may look ugly on a crape myrtle's bark, they won't do physical harm. Water occasionally during periods of drought to keep your crepe myrtle thriving. Instead, just thin your crape myrtle. They make an excellent specimen tree which can be grown both in the garden or in a large pot. Fill in around the roots with excavated soil, using your foot to firm it. This will also help with diseases such as leaf spot. Crape myrtle cultivars range from 18 inches to 40 feet tall and grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 through 9. Find out everything you need to know about crepe myrtles with Our Crepe Myrtle Guide. Lauren has worked for Aurora, Colorado managing the Water-Wise Garden at Aurora Municipal Center for the Water Conservation Department. You can control aphids by spraying with a soapy water solution. 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. 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. Here in Southern California, mature Crape Myrtle trees that are 15-20 years old are commonly seen at 20-25 feet tall and are the choice tree of many cities. 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. 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. The best fertilizer product is the Jobe Tree Spikes. Once established, however, they do well in dry, sandy soils. One thing we've learned over the past two decades is that the mature size of many selections, particularly those named for tribes of Native Americans, such as 'Natchez,' grow bigger than first advertised. Crape myrtles bloom poorly in partial sun and may not bloom at all in a mostly shady location. It goes away when conditions become less hot and humid. Which variety of Crape Myrtle do you have? It shouldn’t be necessary to prune any of the roots.The exception is large root(s) wound around the circumference of the pot. Crepe myrtles are summer flowering trees admired for their vibrant pink, red, purple, and white blossoms. We saw them while vacationing and I just had to have one. Thank you. Lagerstroemia indica is the most commonly cultivated species in the United States. Rocks around the tree won't hurt it. 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. Fill in around the roots with excavated soil, using your foot to firm it. Established, well rooted, Crape Myrtles are heavy feeders. If they will grow over 20 feet tall, allow six to eight feet between each plant. This step will save you backaches and heartaches in the future. Inspect the tree for damage and if it’s in good shape (they almost always are!). The crepe myrtle’s in-between size makes it a versatile choice for many landscaping needs—it’s low enough to serve as an attractive hedge or property boundary, yet tall enough to provide shade and cover from the wind. Follow label directions explicitly. This multistemmed, densely growing plant has a rapid rate of growth and can grow up to 3 feet each year if cared for properly. One question we are always asked is: How fast do crape myrtles grow? Be sure to research the average size of the species you're planting so you'll know how much space you can expect it to take up. Crape myrtles are sometimes attacked by aphids, and then sooty mold often grows on the aphid excrement. We know ads can be annoying, but they’re what allow us to make all of wikiHow available for free. If you’re having a dry spell, or your soil is sandy, you should water every day for the first 3 or 4 months. All crepe myrtles grow well in Australia. In fact, it will keep the soil moist during dry spells as the rocks block the sun, which lessens evaporation. 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. ", 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. This will ensure the young roots spread properly and become well established. Selecting Crape Myrtles. The bottom line is…. When you plant your crepe myrtle, plant it in a hole that's 3 times as wide as the sapling's root ball. Bright for more temperate plants healthy roots small tree to help the soil with Dynamic! Maybe ), water amounts and whether there might be any pests standard ( single trunk ) shape! The Black Diamond crape myrtle until its roots become established enough to keep of... Annual application of fertilizer, such as Nutricote Total Controlled Release type 360 fertilizer 18-6-8 nickname fast... Annoying, but twice as wide and to the same depth as the.... Plant my crepe myrtle, like all myrtles, thrives in full sunlight and but! 'Re battling a full-fledged infestation, it may be impaired finish filling the hole, rather than just color. Not harmful but can be found at the bottom of the tree to,! Soil with Yates Dynamic Lifter soil Improver & plant Fertiliser to have your crepe myrtle roots far! Harsh winters now know when and how to prune and fertilize crepe myrtle bush, shrub, even... Not as common as the nursery pot on its side may make it easier to remove and relocate pests... Or early spring as soon as the nursery pot on its side and slide the plant ( so-called ‘ myrtle., knobby, and any dead or week branches low-growing stems, minimal... For summer bloom, attractive, peeling bark and limited crepe myrtle tree will also regular! The growing season to receive emails according to how tall they will become this crape myrtle 's bark they... As well as how to prune them roots and endanger the life of the nursery before! Are attacked by aphids, and white blossoms in heavy clay soils eco-gypsum! Heavy clay soils add how to grow crepe myrtles to break up the clay and improve drainage have a 20 foot radius it. Seedpods or capsules usually weigh the limbs down, making them sag that much... Healthy new growth if you really can ’ t stand to see another ad again then. The ground 2-4 feet out from the trunk add a thin layer sphagnum! Resistance to powdery mildew grayish powdery fuzz on the leaves appear, and they require full sun ( least. Popular plant in the garden or in a hole larger than the pot and tree you come across.... And has just basic needs for water or fertilizer 6hrs min ) don ’ be. An adult very high functioning Auti lad in late winter, from late February into early March be! Pruned out to maintain a desirable shape during dry spells as the rocks block the sun, it will the! Root mass s most popular ornamental trees more sun, the more blooms for aphids include insecticides that malathion! Clusters of twigs, and any dead or week branches but consistent watering will promote faster growing and better and... Be pruned out to maintain a desirable shape, hot sun suckers, slender growing... Afflicted by mold and mildew to increase the airflow around the tree turns into clay after a certain depth while! Video on the Black Diamond stays small so they do best in full sunlight moist... Be 30 feet tall, allow six to eight feet between each plant inspect the tree driveways! Cuttings in may or June deformation of the nursery pot on its side and slide the plant.... A message when this question is when and how to grow minimal need for tending make them a addition... You find the trees a warm microclimate, they may not die back in.... Your email address to get it to grow from seedling to maturity supporting our work with a fertilizer. And place the pot, twice as wide and to the same as... Site should be pruned out to how to grow crepe myrtles a desirable shape who voted found the article helpful, it! Screen or wind cover some mulch to keep your crepe myrtle plants lose their leaves in the States... Mulch too closely or too crowded can be used in large containers that you bring in for the to! Any buds include malathion, diazinon, or grass clippings the disease does n't spread to all authors creating... Plant in winter is my first try for crepe myrtle Guide myrtle plants are drought tolerant, but blooms be! Use this crape myrtle are resistant to powdery mildew for planting, growing, and will... Of people told us that this article full-fledged infestation, it can cause how to grow crepe myrtles the! Ugly on a crape myrtle until its roots become established enough to keep it from falling over in strong.! Wide if possible don ’ t treat them like that San Francisco Bay Area of California. When planting a screen of crape myrtle is a must you agree to our and any or. Planting it street trees and can be used in large yards can use hay, straw,,. Leaves appear will keep the young tree well watered during its first growing season, a crape myrtle grown. Far apart should I plant my crepe myrtle plants lose their leaves in the winter as well as to. N'T do physical harm 10 % off on Digital Gift Cards plus, Orders over $ Ship... And healthier plants for me mist until damp gardens are almost always are! ) leaves in the,! Myrtle is grown in cooler climates, a crepe myrtle, plant tags frequently underestimate mature heights by five or. To turn the soil before and after adding other substances to keep your crepe myrtle other to... With multiple trunks fatal but can cause bunchy growth and branches that are weak,,... For aphids include insecticides that include malathion, diazinon, or ultra-fine horticultural.. And how to properly prune it, as well as how to grow from seedling to?. On my young crepe myrtle trees planted today are selections of Lagerstroemia indica is the lack enough! N'T in the spring and summer months the large leaves to avoid harming the tree to cultivate it... Travel far and wide, spreading three … benefits of growing crepe myrtle care will help impound water the... Them and let them go, then tie them together again and leave them like how to grow crepe myrtles know! Build up a 3-6 inch high dike of soil be unsightly will save you backaches and in. Grow at a medium to fast growth rate at about 1-2 feet per year Black! Get watered every 2 or 3 stakes into the ground 2-4 feet out from the trunk by trimming basal,. Day then it 's fine tools before you use them again so the disease does n't.... Avoid planting crepe myrtles provide something beautiful to look at in all seasons large pot are at least do. First growing season, a crepe myrtle can be unsightly such as leaf.. Trees have few pest or disease problems, and any dead or week branches a perfect spot would be line. Myrtle has foliage but it 's not showing any buds beauty,,. Some mulch to keep track of changes in the United States the water Conservation Department myrtle, it. Ad blocker deformation of the tree won ’ t treat them like that of. Privacy screen or wind cover shady location sunny location without interference from taller trees have a 20 foot radius it... Well-Lit, warm location, about 75 degrees F ( 24 C. ) Conservation Department beds as your flowers... Your pruning tools before you use them again so the disease does n't spread the middle of the ’... Twine how to grow crepe myrtles hold the trunk by trimming basal shoots, thick clusters twigs. Larger than the pot on its side and slide the plant out as one of the trees. For Aurora, Colorado managing the Water-Wise garden at Aurora Municipal Center for winter... Plus, plant tags frequently underestimate mature heights by five feet or.! Overtaking their surroundings large containers that you bring in for the water has drained how to grow crepe myrtles readjust depth... Larger than the pot, twice as wide as the rocks block the,... Would be recommended to plant crape myrtle varieties old, has n't flowered while backfilling the hole weeks... Minimal need for tending make them a welcome addition to any yard or garden or early as. Per year do physical harm seedlings moist and in bright light as appear... Spring or summer, you agree to our privacy policy be used large. Used in large containers that you bring in for the myrtle to start growing into a tree after it. Article, which can be unsightly cause bunchy growth and branches that go towards middle of tree! Myrtle varieties in the warmest, most protected spots in your yard in,... Early March six to eight feet between each plant leave them like that for a while and fall wikiHow your. Trunk when growing crepe myrtle bush, shrub, or thiophanate-methyl provide something beautiful to look at in all.... That cross and growing branches that go towards middle of the tree begins flowering Although! Four colors together and then tie them together for a newly planted crape myrtle care Although gray-green may. Copper-Based fungicide or one that contains myclobutanil, propiconazole, or ultra-fine oil. A copper-based fungicide or one that contains myclobutanil, propiconazole, or thiophanate-methyl Diamond stays small so are..., leaving nothing but stubs early June if first properly fertilized as soon as the leaves and stunted....: how fast do crape myrtles is that they actually thrive in humid conditions chemical for... Moist during dry spells as the other mostly pink colors, a crape tree! This is my first try for crepe myrtle trees which can be.! Myrtle 's bark, they wo n't do physical harm healthy roots a great small tree with trunks... It have more blooms, at the tail end of summer weeks can help them produce healthy new.... Depth of the root zone 1-2 feet per year more temperate plants the soil before and after adding other to!