From the Bulb and Blossom Garden Club
Crepe myrtles bloom on new growth, so pruning should be done before new growth starts in February or March. Due to the recent heavy freeze Eunice experienced; it would be a good idea to see if the plant is still alive. Carefully scrape away the bark in a small area at the lower part of a branch. If it is green, the plant is still alive. It will come back because carbohydrates stored in the root system are just starting to move up the plant to fuel the new growth.
Remove all dead wood down to the highest level of living tissue, even if it is at ground level. Practicing naturalistic pruning helps maintain the shape and form of this beautiful plant. Avoid cutting straight across so the branch looks like a tree stump. Topping forces the tree to sprout multiple spindly branches which can stunt growth and make it prone to disease and pests.
A better way to cut is to make a diagonal cut facing outward. Locate an outward-facing bud on the branch and cut just above it on a side branch that you want to become a new leader. This will encourage growth in that direction.
Thinning the plant helps promote healthy growth by opening the plant and allowing for better air circulation and light penetration. To thin the plant, remove entire branches by cutting them back to the branch collar (the swollen area where the branch joins the main stem), but leaving the collar intact. This will encourage proper healing and prevent stubbing.
Try to maintain the natural shape of a tree. Remove excess suckers (new growth) from the base of the plant or any branches growing towards the center of the tree to improve air circulation. Also remove branches that curve out too wide or hang too low to give the plant a slimmer appearance and improve air circulation.
As the plant recovers from the freeze, it will be more vulnerable to pests and disease. Early detection is important in pest control. Pests include aphids, crepe myrtle bark scale (looks like large white mealy bugs on stems and trunks), sooty mold, and powdery mildew. Lady bugs often take care of the pests, but if they do not, research for the best treatment.
Like us on Facebook – Bulb and Blossom Garden Club.
