How to prune crape myrtle

When to prune crape myrtle

The pruning of crape myrtle usually needs to be divided into three different stages, namely spring, summer, autumn and winter, and there are different pruning methods at different times.

How to prune branches of Crape Myrtle

1. When pruning crape myrtle in spring, there are two ways: before budding and after budding. Pre-bud pruning should be done before it grows new branches to avoid disrupting its growth function. Crape myrtle grows rapidly, and leaves will sprout everywhere on the branches in spring, which will destroy the appearance of the plant. At this time, it can be pruned after the buds.

2. Crape myrtle will enter a dormant state in winter. Pruning can ensure the shape of the plant. When pruning the crape myrtle, the branches should be pruned in layers to prevent the seedlings from crossing each other after growing, making it look more layered, while ensuring that there are a small number of buds on the trunk.

3. Pruning in summer and autumn is to extend the flowering period of the crape myrtle. Pruning the recently grown branches, leaving only a small number of new buds on the branches, can promote the regrowth of new branches and ensure its beauty.

Tips for pruning crape myrtle

Crape myrtle is relatively cold-resistant. Before it sprouts in spring, you can cut off its weak and dense branches, and shorten the other branches of the year by 2 to 3 centimeters. This will allow it to grow more vigorously.

Crape myrtle has a strong germination ability. In spring, new branches and buds may sprout in fixed or uncertain places. In order to ensure the beautiful shape of the tree, dense flowers, and reduce the invasion of diseases and pests, the flower buds need to be pruned.

Crape Myrtle Pruning Flowering

The inflorescence of crape myrtle blooms at the top of the branches. When the first batch of flowers bloom, the withered flowers should be cut off in time, and it should be fertilized so that it can bloom again within a growing period.

Tips for pruning crape myrtle

If new shoots grow from the roots of the crape myrtle, you can remove them directly at this time. This will ensure the beauty of the plant. It also needs to be maintained in a place with good air circulation and plenty of sunlight.