Pruning a crepe myrtle step-by-step
- ’Look at your tree. It sounds so basic, but don’t rush this first step,’ explains Dean Dietrich, horticulturist at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden .
- ‘Think ahead. Consider which branches can you do without. ...
- Thin lower branches. ...
- 'Typically you can prune up to one-third of the canopy. ...
- Sometimes it may be necessary to prune larger branches. ...
When to prune Black Diamond crape myrtle trees?
Like most crape myrtles these trees are easy to grow and drought tolerant once established. Black Diamond Crape Myrtles are disease resistant, especially to powdery mildew. The best time to prune these dwarf crape myrtles is in late winter or early spring when they are still dormant.
How do you propagate a black diamond crape myrtle?
Black Diamond Crape Myrtle Propagation Common methods to propagate these plants are by seeds, root, or stem cuttings. However, these methods are quite slow and it would take about 2 years t get the tree in ornamental form. You can simply get a plant from the nursery and plant it in your garden or any desired place.
How do you prune a crepe myrtle?
Cut off the old flowers, flower clusters, and round seed pods in July, August and September and if you keep fertilizing the plants, they will keep vigorously producing blooms until the first frost. Crape Myrtles are the most resilient and prune-able plants we've ever come across. There's really no "wrong" way to do it, so experiment and have fun!
How do you plant a multi stem crepe myrtle tree?
You want all of your branching to occur on the top quarter of the tree. To achieve the multi stem look, allow your Crape Myrtle to branch along the length of the stem. You may also want to leave a few suckers to grow into new stems as well.
Can you prune Black Diamond crepe myrtle?
The best time to prune these dwarf crape myrtles is in late winter or early spring when they are still dormant. Do any heavy pruning at this time. Dead or broken branches can be removed when you notice them.
What month should crepe myrtles be cut back?
FebruaryFebruary is a good time to prune crape myrtles. It should be done before fresh growth appears in March. Its toughness makes crape myrtle a popular plant. They are fast-growing and highly adaptable.
How tall does a black diamond crape myrtle grow?
between 10-12 feetThe Black Diamond® crape myrtle tends to reach a mature height between 10-12 feet with a 4 to 5 foot spread.
How do you prune a crepe myrtle that is too tall?
0:091:32How to Prune Crepe Myrtle Tree - For Tall Growth and Wide CanopyYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe best time to prune your crepe myrtle is when it's not flowering i want to encourage it to growMoreThe best time to prune your crepe myrtle is when it's not flowering i want to encourage it to grow tall. And grow a wide canopy. I'm going to start at the bottom and cut off all the little suckers.
What happens if you don't prune crape myrtles?
Leaving it alone will result in a pretty raggedy-looking tree, and it won't grow as quickly either. The new growth will emerge on its own from the fresh cuts, and if you trim at just the right point, you'll encourage way more blooms to appear.
Should crepe myrtles be topped?
Topping a crape myrtle destroys the natural balance and beauty of the tree. Improperly trimmed multi-trunk crape myrtles have weakend immune responses and cannot fight off disease and insects as well.
How do you protect Black Diamond crape myrtle in winter?
It is advisable to wrap young (1 year or less) and small Crepe Myrtle trees. Wrap burlap around the branches and then add an insulating filler such as leaves or straw to provide additional protection. Use bush jackets for dwarf plants. Bush jackets are reusable insulating covers that cover the plant.
Can I cut my crepe myrtle to the ground?
Unfortunately you must cut the tree completely to the ground, and don't be surprised when it grows back VERY quickly. The next winter, select three to five well-spaced trunks, and cut off any others at ground level.
Why is my black diamond crepe myrtle not blooming?
'A common explanation for crepe myrtle not blooming is because you pruned it too late,' says Payne. 'You should never clip it after it has begun to develop in the spring and once it blooms since you risk mistakenly removing new growth.
How far down can you trim a crepe myrtle tree?
As your Crape myrtle grows, it will be necessary to remove low branches to raise the canopy. Do this by pruning out the side branches on the main trunks – do this up to a height of about four to six feet, but not up to a height of more than half of the total tree height.
Where do you cut back crepe myrtles?
If you need to prune your crapemyrtle tree or shrub, thinning branches to limb up the crapemyrtle is the correct method. Remove lower limbs that are thinner than a pencil diameter. While the plant is young, it is acceptable to prune the top of the branches. When it gets older, this is unacceptable.
How tall should a crepe myrtle be?
Mature Size. The common crapemyrtle grows to a height of 15–25' and a spread of 6–15' at maturity.
Can you prune crepe myrtles in March?
Spring Pruning Crepe Myrtle Trees Limit aesthetic pruning to March or early April, cutting only those branches that do not yet show new growth. Cutting new growth at this time decreases the summer's flower production. If you didn't remove them in February, go ahead and prune any broken, dead or diseased branches.
Can I cut my crepe myrtle to the ground?
Unfortunately you must cut the tree completely to the ground, and don't be surprised when it grows back VERY quickly. The next winter, select three to five well-spaced trunks, and cut off any others at ground level.
Should I deadhead crepe myrtle?
Q: Do you have to deadhead crape myrtle trees to get more flowers? A: No, you do not have to deadhead the Southern lilac (crepe or crape myrtle, depending on what source you consult), but it does help to stimulate more flowers when you do — if you can reach them.
How to get myrtle to bloom again?
If you have a more traditional cultivar or crepe myrtle, which does not stay in flower for long, then pruning away spent flowers will encourage it to bloom again. By doing this, you can sometimes get three or even four blooming periods from your plant each year. To prune for improved flower production, simple cut away spent blooms when they fade to fruits or seed pods. This will also tidy up your tree if you don’t like the look of spent flowers or seed pods. The seed pods can also be quite heavy and might drag down your tree branches under their weight, and this is another reason that is in favor of pruning the crepe myrtle.
What is the term for the way people cut back crepe myrtles?
The trend to drastically cut back a crepe myrtle by entirely lopping off the upper section led to the coining of the term ‘crepe murder, ’ which refers to the way many people find the winter stumps of crepe myrtle to be unattractive. ‘.
What is a crepe myrtle tree?
The crepe myrtle tree is also commonly known as ‘crape myrtle,’ ‘crepe flower,’ and ‘Indian crape myrtle.’ Botanically speaking, its scientific name is Lagerstroemia indica. This is a deciduous plant that can be either a tree or a large shrub. It thrives in warm temperatures, being hardy through USDA Hardiness Zones 7–9, and so is popularly cultivated in these types of climates around the world. It is especially popular in the Southern United States, where it is a common sight in backyards and lining residential streets. The tree is actually native to parts of Australia and Asia.
Why is crepe myrtle so popular?
The bark of the tree has a mottled effect, and it sheds itself throughout the year to reveal fresh bark beneath. The flowers of crepe myrtle are the reason why it is so popular. It blooms in abundance in summer and fall, with huge panicles of densely packed, crinkled flowers. Crepe myrtle flowers come in various colors, ...
How tall is a Crepe Myrtle?
There are many cultivars of crepe myrtle available, with dwarf varieties that do not exceed three feet in height, through to large trees that can range in height from 30 feet to 100 feet. Dwarf cultivars that work well as low hedging or in borders include ‘Hopi,’ ‘Zuni,’ ‘Prairie Lace,’ ‘Centennial,’ ‘Victor,’ and ‘Acoma.’.
How long does it take for a tree to bloom after pruning?
If you choose to use pollarding, then you can expect blooming to be delayed by around a month while the tree takes extra time to recover. The more severely you prune the tree, the more blooming will be affected.
How to keep a tree in good shape?
The best practice to ensure good shape and health is to remove all of the tips of the tree. This is known as ‘tipping’ and will reduce the size of the tree while retaining an attractive look. This is a time-consuming process that might be difficult if the tree is very large, and you cannot reach all areas of it.
How to grow a crape myrtle?
It's easy.. Just allow your plant to branch and spread naturally. Your Crape Myrtle will still bloom and be beautiful so long as it's watered and fertilized properly
What happens when you commit a crape murder?
When Crape Murder is committed it can literally appear that half, or more, of the plant has been removed. On the one hand... This technique is used by some no professional landscapers and homeowners because it's quick, fairly easy, the plant almost always recovers..
Is a crape myrtle tough?
Natural Look. Now the good news is that Crape Myrtles are one darn tough plant. So the bottom line is if you make a mistake most likely your tree will recover in a few seasons. Most people don't know this.
Is it necessary to prune a plant?
The good news is that super aggressive pruning that you might have seen around town is not actually needed to get a beautiful, healthy plant. Picture Picture Picture
Can you prune crape myrtles with chainsaw?
If yours are way out of control, then a chainsaw might be necessary in the most extreme cases. So now on to the good stuff. Click on image to view larger.
How to make a single stem crape myrtle?
With proper pruning, any of our beautiful sizes and varieties can become a single stem plant. Simply remove any extra stems protruding from the ground. This includes any suckers. Also, trim any new growth that appears on the stem that may turn into a branch. You want all of your branching to occur on the top quarter of the tree.
What is a crape murder?
"Crape Murder" is a term used to describe the aggressive pruning of Crape Myrtles. It can literally appear that half, or more, of the plant has been removed. This technique is used by landscapers and home owners because it's quick, fairly easy, the plant almost always recovers and ensures maximum new growth.#N#This technique is NOT recommended as it may damage you plant.
What is a suckers myrtle?
"Suckers" refers to the new growth that comes from the base of the trunk. Most people prune these off. However, if you want your Crape Myrtle to have a more "natural" look or would like it to have multiple trunks, leave some of the suckers to grow. Blooms will appear on new growth suckers.
Can you prune a crape myrtle?
Allowing your Crape Myrtle to grow into it's natural shape has been the trend in recent years. This approach requires little to no pruning. Just allow your plant to branch and spread naturally. Your Crape Myrtle will still bloom and be beautiful if watered often and properly Fertilized.
What color are the flowers on a black diamond crape myrtle?
The Black Diamond Crape Myrtle White blooms with pure white flowers. The milky white flowers with deep burgundy leaves make the tree look absolutely heavenly.
When do black diamond crape myrtles bloom?
The Black Diamond Crape Myrtle flowers start blooming after the middle of spring and continue throughout the fall. They grow in panicles and have a crepe-like crinkled texture. In addition, these blooms come in different colors and shades of purple, red, and white.
What is the darkest black diamond?
Red Hot Black Diamond Crape Myrtle is the darkest red in the whole of the Black Diamond collection. They generally have an upright tree-like growth habit. This is surely a beautiful addition to add the necessary ‘oomph’ in your surroundings.
How long does it take to get a crape myrtle?
However, these methods are quite slow and it would take about 2 years t get the tree in ornamental form. You can simply get a plant from the nursery and plant it in your garden or any desired place. This is no doubt the quickest and easiest way to get a Crape Myrtle.
Why do I prune my trees so much?
Another possible cause of excessive pruning is the requirement to maintain the size of the tree. Instead of cutting and wasting a large tree, it is better to opt for dwarf and semi-dwarf varieties. However, we are sharing a basic outline about the pruning technique as a last choice.
What color are the leaves on a burgundy tree?
Leaves. The black, bright burgundy, or dark purple shade of the foliage is the main differentiation feature. These leaves are simple and grow oppositely on the woody trees. The size of leaves ranges between 2 to 8 inches on maturity.
Can you grow diamond crepe myrtle in containers?
You can grow them in containers, patios, side-walks, or even borders to beautify your growing areas. Apart from the beautiful appearance, these trees show a remarkable tolerance for different temperatures, diseases, and pests. All the colors are attractive enough to make you go ga-ga over their beauty. Interesting? Let us learn more about the care and plantation of the Diamond Crepe Myrtle.
How to keep a crape myrtle from getting too big?
You may think that hacking the tree back is the best way to keep it from getting too big for its location. This is not true either. You can reduce a crape myrtle’s size with carefully placed “thinning cuts”, as we describe below.
How to cut back a tree that is too big?
If the tree is too large, you can cut off the tallest branches back to where they join another branch that is at least one-third as thick. This method, called a “thinning cut”, will preserve the natural shape of the tree while reducing its overall size.
How big do crape myrtles get?
But maybe you planted the tree in the wrong place, or you selected a cultivar that gets too big for that location. Better to remove the tree that’s too big and replace it with one of the many dwarf varieties that naturally stay smaller. Perfect Plants offers ten different varieties of crape myrtle, with mature heights ranging from 8-15 feet ( Tonto) to 25-30 feet ( Natchez ). Black Diamond Crape Myrtles are dwarf sized and stay between 8-10 feet tall and 8 feet wide at full size.
What happens when you whack back a crape myrtle?
The dense tangle of foliage thus created makes the tree more susceptible to diseases such as powdery mildew, and pests such as aphids and mites. When the bloom does come, many of the long thin shoots are too weak to hold the weight, and wind up hanging down in an unnatural mess. Sometimes they break off.
What is the natural form of a crape myrtle?
The natural form (called the “growth habit”) of a crape myrtle is like a vase with multiple trunks, each with side branches fanning upward and outward, and no branches growing downward or inward.
How to get suckers to sprout up?
Unfortunately, this will encourage suckers to sprout up from the ground, and these should be removed as they appear.
How long does it take to cure a dead crape?
Each winter thereafter, prune as described below. It can take up to five years or more to cure a murdered crape, but don’t give up.
How long has a sage tree been pruned?
This tree has been properly pruned for 3 years and is ready to be pruned for the coming year. If your tree bloomed the previous year, and you didn't remove the seed clusters, you should see these at the tips of at least some of last years stems.
How big is a bypass pruner?
Bypass Pruners for up to 5/8" branch diameter
How many new branches emerge from beneath the pruning cuts?
In studying the diagram more closely you will notice where pruning cuts were made in previous years, and that wherever cuts were made two new branches emerged from beneath the cuts.
Do weeping trees break off?
Longer weeping branches and larger flowers clusters might sound nice, right? However, when the tree is in full bloom those long branches can't support the weight of heavy flowers. Then a rain comes along and the branches weep to the ground and often break off. Not good. But it doesn't have to be that way.
Can you prune crape myrtles?
When it comes to pruning crape myrtles, it would be better to leave them alone than to prune them improperly. We've all seen over-pruning, when each and every year people chop crape myrtles back too far, and those ugly "knuckles" or giant "fists" begin to form. These fists grow larger every year when gardeners and lawn care "professionals" cut the previous years branches all the way to the knuckles.
