Crape Myrtle trees are one of the most versatile landscaping plants. They add beauty year-round in most cases. The following tips will help you maintain your plants for optimum beauty and growth.

Lighting Conditions

Crape Myrtles grow best in full sun or partial shade. Deep or full shade is not recommended as this can lead to poor drying after rain or watering, which in turn can lead to mildew problems. This is why full sunlight is preferred. However, the variety of Crape Myrtle you plant can make a big difference as well. Be sure to read through our plant descriptions for the mildew resistance of each plant variety.

Soil Types

Crape Myrtles grow in all soil types. For pots, whiskey barrels, and hanging baskets, use a sphagnum peat moss based soil.

Watering

Crape Myrtles do well in just about any moisture situation and are drought tolerant. Newly planted Crape Myrtles should be watered daily for the first few weeks to establish initial growth and foundation. Watering should then be gradually reduced in frequency. During the winter, water occasionally to keep the soil from drying out completely. In the spring, as temperatures begin to warm, begin watering at regular intervals. Frequent watering will stimulate growth. Twice-yearly, Crape Myrtles should be heavily watered to leach out any excess salts from the soil. High levels of naturally occurring salts, or a build-up of salts from irrigation water can harm Crape Myrtles. The best time to leach excess salts out of the soil is in the spring and again in the fall.

Fertilizing

Fertilize during the growing season with Osmocote slow release type fertilizers.

Pruning

Crape Myrtles generally require little pruning. "Suckers" or water sprouts may develop along the lower portions of the trunk or from the roots. These should be removed when trying to establish Crape Myrtles as trees and not shrubs. A Crape Myrtle can be trained to be either. Pruning to remove old flower clusters will promote additional blooming. Small twiggy growth should be thinned out from underneath and within the canopy.

Insects

Crape Myrtles are often visited by aphids on new growth. Aphids are soft-bodied, greenish insects that suck plant fluids and secrete a sticky substance called "honeydew". Remove aphids with a strong shower from a hose or by applying a mild soap spray. Other treatments may be applied to prevent insects. Be sure to check with your local garden center or professional for more options and precautions.