Looking to add some vibrant color to your garden, Lykkers? Crepe myrtle are known for their long-lasting blooms, resilient nature, and striking bark, making them a great addition to any garden.
Here’s a complete guide to planting and caring for these beautiful trees!
1. Choosing the Right Variety
Crepe myrtle come in various sizes, shapes, and colors, making them suitable for almost any garden space. Some varieties are dwarf and only grow a few feet tall, while others can reach heights of up to 30 feet, creating a dramatic landscape feature. Popular colors range from soft lavender to vibrant red, as well as pink and pure white, ensuring there’s a variety that will enhance your garden's color scheme.
2. Preparing the Soil
Crepe myrtle thrive best in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level, which helps maintain healthy roots and encourages vibrant blooms. Before planting, it’s important to amend the soil by mixing in organic compost or well-rotted manure to improve its texture and nutrient content. This will allow water to reach the roots more effectively, preventing issues like root rot.
3. Planting Tips
The ideal time to plant crepe myrtle is in early spring or late fall, as this gives the roots a chance to establish before the intense summer heat or winter cold. When planting, dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and deep enough to cover the roots but not the trunk. Gently place the tree in the hole, ensuring it’s standing straight, and backfill with soil, pressing down to eliminate air pockets.
4. Pruning for Health and Shape
Crepe myrtles require minimal pruning, but a light trim each year encourages shape and bloom production. Remove any dead or crossing branches in late winter before new growth begins. Avoid over-pruning, as this can hinder bloom development. A natural shape with healthy limbs is best.
5. Watering and Fertilizing
Crepe myrtle are drought-tolerant once established but benefit from regular watering, especially in dry spells. Water deeply to encourage root growth and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. This promotes healthy growth without encouraging weak or overly vigorous foliage.
6. Managing Pests and Diseases
Common pests include aphids and powdery mildew. Treat aphids with insecticidal soap, and avoid powdery mildew by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant. Keep the area under the tree free of fallen leaves to prevent fungal infections. With proper care, crepe myrtle are generally resilient and low-maintenance.
7. Mulching and Winter Care
In colder climates, young crepe myrtle may benefit from extra protection during winter—apply additional mulch around the root zone or wrap the base with burlap to insulate it from frost. Proper mulching and winter care will help your crepe myrtle come back strong and vibrant in the spring.
Crepe myrtle are a stunning, versatile choice for gardeners who want beauty with minimal upkeep. Follow these steps and enjoy the vibrant, resilient beauty of crepe myrtles in your garden for years to come!
How to Plant a Crape Myrtle (Planting Root Bound Trees)
Video by HortTube with Jim Putnam
