Crepe myrtles are one of the most popular landscape plants of the south. They tolerate heat, humidity, and drought without any problems and range in size from dwarf varieties of less than 3 feet tall to large trees-like plants that can reach heights of up to 30 feet.
These southern beauties are prized for their year-round appeal and have something new to offer in each season. Crepe myrtles provide a long summer of blooms in beautiful colors, earning them the title of the “plant with the 100 day bloom.” In the fall, their bright green leaves change into vibrant fall reds, oranges, and yellows. During the winter, their unique peeling bark and branch structure can be a beautiful place to hang holiday lights and decorations.
The most controversial aspect of caring for crepe myrtles is how to prune them. The goal in pruning should be to maintain the health of the plants by achieving well-spaced main branches which allow air and sunlight to the interior of the plant. Crepe myrtles bloom on new growth, so the best time to prune is always in late winter or very early spring. Pruning at this time is best for the health of the plant, and may increase blooms in the spring and throughout the summer.
From year to year, crepe myrtles are usually low-maintenance plants. They only require basic pruning to keep them blooming and well-shaped. The best method usually involves starting from the bottom and working upwards: begin by removing any branches originating from or near the base, and any growing inward towards the center of the tree. Next, eliminate any branches that are crossing or rubbing against one another, and trim off dead branches. Finally, any limbs which detract from the overall appearance of the plant can be removed.
It is important to note that there IS a wrong way to prune crepe myrtles, and it is called topping or “crepe murder.” This silly nickname originates from the “murderous” appearance caused by the severe pruning process called topping. Many people believe that topping their crepe myrtles is the best way to promote flowering, but this is a common misconception. Topping plants in this aggressive manner may make them more susceptible to disease and pests, and may reduce flowering in the next season. Any arborist will tell you that cutting stems back to a predetermined height is not healthy for the tree – crepe myrtles should always be pruned back to a bud, a side branch, or a main stem. A crepe myrtle that has been topped also develops thinner and weaker branches in future seasons and may be unable to support the weight of its blooms. If you do have to control the height of the plant, pruning the branches back to a diameter roughly the same size as your thumb or smaller will not result in a “knee”- unsightly scarred and swollen terminal end of the branch that is created by “topping” cutting the plant back too far.
Crepe myrtles are also often topped after a few years of neglecting pruning altogether. These plants are healthiest when pruned regularly and consistently each year! Regular pruning helps to maintain shape and brand health, and also increases the number of new blooms in the spring and summer. Please allow Wrightsville Beach Landscaping to assist you in maintaining your crepe myrtles from year to year!
