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Caring for Crape Myrtle Trees (Top 10 Questions)

In the North Texas area, one of the most commonly used or heard of trees is the Crape Myrtle. Although it is commonly heard of, many homeowners are unaware of the maintenance required for the tree itself. In this article, we will discuss 10 common questions about caring for a Crape Myrtle tree. These will include answering questions about tree pruning, watering needs, best planting locations, and many more. This article will be helpful for homeowners caring for their Crape Myrtles in the North Texas area specifically.

Do Crape Myrtles Cause Foundation Problems?

Yes, any tree planted close to a foundation could cause problems. A Crape Myrtle tree roots are longer than most and could lead to foundation issues if left unchecked. In order to avoid potential foundation problems, make sure to provide the tree with enough space to grow and avoid planting directly next to a large structure such as a home, sidewalk, patio, and other hardscaping work. Luckily, there are several Crape Myrtle varieties and sizes ranging from 5 feet tall to over 20 feet tall, so it is easy to choose one that fits your landscape and avoid foundation issues.

Should Crape Myrtles be Cut Back Every Year?

Cutting back, or topping, is the process of aggressively trimming the top of a tree, foliage, and branches in order to avoid precarious pruning. The answer is no. Crape Myrtles do not need to be cut back every year, if at all. Many people believe cutting back the tree is a simple way to improve bloom and growth rate, but this in fact has the opposite effect on the tree, stunting growth for 6–8 weeks. This pruning method can weaken your Crape Myrtle and is entirely unnecessary in the maintenance process for any tree.

Should I Cut Dead Blooms off a Crape Myrtle Tree?

No, cutting dead blooms or deadheading your Crape Myrtle is not necessary and up to the homeowner’s personal preference. To clarify, deadheading is the process of removing spent blooms from a tree or plant in order to promote new blooms in the growth season. Although deadheading is often effective, it is purely optional for Crape Myrtle trees and is not necessary to produce healthy blooms in the spring.

Where is the Best Place to Plant a Crape Myrtle Tree?

As with any tree planting, it is best to plant Crape Myrtles in a place where it will receive full sunlight. Crape Myrtles prefer heavy sun, which results in full and healthy blooms come springtime. In addition, it is also best to plant your Crape Myrtle in well-drained and moist soil. This ensures that the delicate roots do not become ridden with water and avoids root diseases. Lastly, because of its size, it is recommended to give your Crape Myrtle substantial space in your landscape and plant the trees away from structures to avoid crowding and fallen blooms occupying the yard.

When Should I Prune My Crape Myrtle Tree?

It is always a good idea to prune your trees every once in a while to keep them looking fresh and maintained, but it is not always necessary. With Crape Myrtles, there is not one specific time that is best for pruning, and it can be pruned whenever necessary. If your concern is ensuring the proper growth of blooms during their growth season, it is best to prune in spring, fall, or after the last freeze. The only guideline to follow for pruning a Crape Myrtle is avoiding times of harsh temperatures, hot or cold.

Do Crape Myrtles Like a Lot of Water?

No, Crape Myrtles don’t require a lot of water. As with any plant, Crape Myrtles require additional watering when first planted to help establish roots but are extremely drought-tolerant trees following the rooting period. After it takes root, the Crape Myrtle may only require water once a week or as needed based on weather conditions. Watering is only necessary when the soil is dry to the touch or a few inches below the surface.

What Kind of Fertilizer do Crape Myrtles Need?

Crape Myrtles do not require a certain type of fertilizer to thrive and grow. If looking for a good option, a high-nitrogen fertilizer will be beneficial for your Crape Myrtle.

Are Crape Myrtle Trees Hard to Maintain?

No, in fact, Crape Myrtles are surprisingly easy to maintain for most North Texas homeowners. The only requirements of Crape Myrtles are substantial sunlight, proper watering, and enough space to thrive. Crape Myrtles are also quite drought-tolerant once established and require little to no pruning.

Why is the Trunk of my Crape Myrtle Turning Black?

The color change of the trunk of a Crape Myrtle is likely a result of pests such as aphids and scale. The black color is a result of the feeding process of these insects and is common in high-concentration areas of Crape Myrtles.

How to Treat Black Bark on Crape Myrtle Trees?

Black bark on Crape myrtle trees can be treated with a high-pressure water stream from a hose or an insecticidal treatment or soap. These treatments can be purchased from your local garden center.