When and how to prune crape myrtle trees

Crape myrtle, also known as crape myrtle, is a deciduous small tree or shrub belonging to the genus Crape myrtle in the Lythraceae family. It is famous for its long flowering period, large number of flowers and diverse colors. It is especially in full bloom during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day. It is often used in landscaping to add to the festive atmosphere. Here’s when and how to prune your crape myrtle tree.

1. Pruning time

Pruning before flowering: Pruning is done before the crape myrtle blooms for the first time. The purpose is to control the amount of flowering in the early stage and prevent excessive flowering that will lead to a decrease in the amount of flowers in the later stage. Initial pruning mainly involves removing buds, that is, removing some new buds to promote the rational distribution and growth of new branches.

Pruning after flowering: Crape myrtle should be pruned after each flowering, which helps stimulate the germination of new buds and create conditions for flowering again. Pruning after flowering not only promotes new growth, but also helps the plant renew itself, maintaining its health and vitality.

2. Fixed stem

The crape myrtle tree has obvious characteristics of a tree, and seed-sown seedlings planted at a moderate depth are not likely to grow a large number of shoots. After 2 to 3 years of planting, the trunk can be cut at a height of 2.5 meters to cultivate tall seedlings, or the trunk can be cut at a height of 1.5 to 2 meters to cultivate dwarf small trees as needed. When cutting the stem, make sure the cut is smooth and use a wound healing agent to promote healing and prevent the entry of germs.

3. Core branch cultivation

Crape myrtle has a strong ability to sprout, and after the trunk is cut, a large number of branches will sprout from the cut in the same year. In the early stage, you can let it grow or thin it out moderately, retaining 3 to 5 strong side branches in different directions. In winter, according to the branching angle, the side branches in three directions are evenly retained as the first-level backbone branches, and other branches are thinned out. The retained backbone branches are shortened to about 20 cm. In the winter of the following year, leave 2 side branches on each main branch and prune them again to complete the main branch cultivation.

4. Daily management

Crape myrtle is highly adaptable and easy to cultivate, but daily management cannot be ignored. The initial planting density should be appropriate and the seedbed should be well prepared to facilitate drainage and irrigation. Weed in time and apply long-acting slow-release compound fertilizer once a year to create a good growth environment. When pruning the main branches, combine it with pinching to control the excessive growth of branches and strengthen disease and pest control.

5. Pruning tips

When pruning, choose healthy branches with good growth directions to keep, and remove diseased and weak branches and overly dense branches to ensure ventilation and light transmission inside the plant. Timely pruning can prevent excessive growth of the plant and maintain its good plant shape and flowering performance.

In short, the crape myrtle tree is easy to survive, simple to cultivate and manage, and easy to prune. Through proper trunk setting, main branch cultivation and daily care, high-quality seedlings that meet market expectations can be cultivated.