Sorry Readers, I’ve been a bit busy with volunteering and summer activities, so there hasn’t been a recent FMB post until today’s on Crape Myrtles.
While out for my walk this morning in the neighborhood, I noticed several beautiful bright pink crape myrtles trees in bloom.
Thinking this might be a great tree for my yard, I decided to do a bit more research.
General Crape Myrtle Information
According to my online research, crape myrtles can be either trees or shrubs. Some varieties will grow quite large up to about 25-feet tall and 10 to 15-feet wide. It is suggested that before you buy one, evaluate the location to see if it will be a good fit. If you want a foundation plant, don’t buy a tall crape myrtle but instead purchase a smaller or dwarf variety.
What I personally love about these blooming trees, is how gorgeous they look in full bloom. My research shows they come in a variety of colors from hot pink, light pink, white or even new varieties of red. Apparently, they bloom twice a year, once in the spring and then again in late summer.
The photograph above show a close up view with the tree in bloom. Also, note the small tan seed pods on the branches.
Crape Myrtles like full sun, at least 6 hours daily. They tolerate some drought but if they are too dry while blooming, you will get fewer blooms. They grow in gardening zones 7 to 9.
Tips for Growing Crape Myrtles
Apparently trimming is required to keep a crape myrtle in a single trunk. The plants sent up suckers around the bottom of the tree which need to be trimmed at least twice a summer. Try not to lop too much off the tree’s top when trimming.
These plants/trees make a nice focal point in your garden, so consider your garden design to show it off.
The tree trunks have very thin skin, so be careful when using a mower or weed whacker around the plants. If you get too close, you could damage the bark. The tree also sheds its bark.
Apparently, Japanese beetles also like to eat the leaves of this plant. The plants also can be infected with aphids which leaves a sooty layer of scale on the leaves. These can be treated with insecticides, etc. If your plant is troubled with scale, be sure to rake up any fallen leaves and keep the ground area clean.
Ending Notes of Crape Myrtle Blog
So the Crape Myrtle tree’s beauty is definitely a buying point. This photograph of it looks great against the blue sky.
I’m not sure that I’m really into buying something that will need pruning every year. Also, consideration should be given about planting something that might need help with Japanese beetles or aphids infestations.
I’m going to have to give this plant careful consideration, although it would look great near my fencing.
But, for now, I enjoy seeing the Crape Myrtles in bloom during my neighborhood walks.
Enjoy the Day!
Resource Sites: Youtube video, HortTube with Jim Putman, Green Biz Nursery and Landscapers, and Garden Design.com.