Getty ImagesWhen you envision a Southern summer garden with your eyes closed, the initial image that comes to mind may be an ancient live oak with its low, sweeping branches. However, the subsequent image is likely that of crepe myrtle trees adorned with puffs of sunset sky-colored blooms, filling the air. These crepe myrtle trees hold a special place in my garden due to their vibrant blooms, autumn foliage, and visually appealing bark that adds interest during the winter months. Fortunately, I have always taken care to avoid committing the mistake known as “crepe murder,” ensuring that my trees maintain their graceful shape. Today, let’s discuss the optimal time for pruning crepe myrtles to promote their health, bloom abundance, and proper form.
Best Time to Prune Crepe Myrtles
It is crucial to understand that crepe myrtles blossom on new growth, making it unwise to prune them in the fall or early winter. During such periods, a sudden warm spell might trigger new growth that could perish when temperatures plummet. Pruning too early can leave the tree vulnerable to winter-related damage. The ideal timeframe for pruning a crepe myrtle is in February or March, before significant new growth becomes apparent.
Pruning in Early Spring
Pruning before the arrival of the Spring Equinox will encourage new growth as temperatures start to climb. Personally, I prefer to maintain a natural shape with sturdy branches that my grandson can climb to enjoy the vibrant blooms. Before pruning, I assess the tree’s shape, remove any broken branches, and wait for the emergence of leaves and flower clusters. Opting for a gentle pruning approach over severe topping has consistently resulted in a colorful display of blossoms from my trees.
Pruning After Early Spring
In the event that you miss the prime window for crepe myrtle pruning and new growth has already begun, you can still proceed with pruning. However, anticipate a delayed bloom time and potentially fewer flowers. If possible, consider skipping pruning for a year and wait until the following February, unless the tree poses a threat of overgrowth. Once my well-established crepe myrtles start leafing out, I inspect each one for any missed deadwood and remove it in late March or early April.
Additional Tip
Mature crepe myrtles tend to produce large bloom clusters that transition into seed pods after the flowers fade. While removing these seed pods is not necessary, trimming them off shortly after the flowers wilt in late July may prompt a second round of blooms in September.
General Pruning Recommendations
Crepe myrtles are generally low-maintenance plants that exhibit beautiful flowers with minimal pruning. Pruning is primarily required for shaping the tree and controlling its size, particularly when planted in a limited space. It is essential to note that annually chopping off the tree’s top will not result in more blooms. Instead, opt for light pruning each year when branches are no thicker than a pencil. Follow these guidelines to sustain a healthy cre
Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape of a tree and is much better than topping it. Despite being low-maintenance, crepe myrtles can face some common issues that you should watch out for, such as poor blooming, spotted or dropping leaves, and concerns about whether the tree is dead or dormant. If your crepe myrtle is not blooming well, it might be due to immaturity, lack of sunlight, or improper pruning timing. Diseases like sooty mold, powdery mildew, or Cercospora leaf spot can affect the appearance of the leaves, but they won’t kill the tree. To address these concerns, use recommended treatments and remove fallen leaves to prevent disease spread. If your crepe myrtle is not leafing out while others are, check for signs of life near the trunk. Crepe myrtles are resilient trees that will bounce back from pruning mistakes with time and care.
