Pruning Crape Myrtles Trees
When Crape Myrtle Trees are pruned correctly they can become a shapely living sculpture even during the winter months when they loose their leaves. Pruning will not interfere with bud formation and makes sure the tree will produce blooms the largest size possible and help it grow clusters of flowers from late June through the summer and into the Fall.
Pruning should be done during the months of January and February. During these months Crape Myrtle trees are Dormantand and the Branch Structure is visible since it has no foliage, making it easier to prune. Pruning should not be done during early or late fall because new growth will emerge and be killed by a freeze harming the tree.
Pruning Tip:
Begin at the ground level moving up the one to several trunks to the canopy. The Sprouts that grow from the base of the tree known as “Suckers” should be pulled off while green. This can be done also throughout the year. Move up the tree to one-third or halfway up the canopy and remove lateral branches. In the canopy, remove branches that are crossing each other rubbing other limbs.
Cuttings should be made to the trunk of the tree or to a side branch that is facing outward. Pruning this way will help develop an open canopy when new growth begins to occur. This also allows the tree to receive the proper air-circulation that is required for Crape Myrtles. Always remove all dead branches to help the tree to grow a new healthy canopy.
Proper pruning will ensure your tree will have an attractive appearance with beautiful thick cluster of flowers during the summer months.
Kurt Kmetz
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