What are the disadvantages of crape myrtles?
Invasive Roots Some larger Crepe Myrtle varieties have vigorous root systems that can spread widely or become invasive, potentially damaging sidewalks, foundations, and sewer lines. Careful selection and placement of the plant can mitigate these risks. Crepe Myrtle” has a long heritage of usage in the South and is still used more often than “Crape Myrtle,” though both spellings are considered correct. If you are ever unsure of which spelling to use, just remember that both are correct, and you can’t go wrong!Crepe myrtles typically do not begin to flower until they are around three years old. If your crepe myrtle is less than three years old, it is likely that it just has not reached the age where it will begin to bloom yet.Crepe myrtles drop flowers, leaves, seeds, pods, and bark, so they can make quite a mess of nearby areas. That’s something to consider before choosing where to plant.To start, the flowers of the crepe myrtle bush are much smaller and have a more vibrant fuchsia color than the crepe myrtle tree. The crepe myrtle tree has fairly large flowers that are more of a light lavender color.
What is the lifespan of crepe myrtles?
Lifespan of Crepe Myrtle Crepe myrtles live quite a few years if you take care of them. A crepe myrtle lifespan can exceed 50 years. So that’s the answer to the question “how long do crepe myrtle trees live? They can live a good, long time with suitable care. So, in conclusion, crepe myrtles trees are usually grown as small trees with 3 to 5 trunks that are kept free of small limbs up on the lower part of the tree (up to 2/3 of the height).Lifespan – When planted in full sun and fertile soil, Crepe Myrtles can live well beyond 50 years. In fact, dotted along the southeastern landscape, it is common to come across specimens over 100 years old.Cut the sorry plant completely to the ground. It will grow back very quickly. The next winter, select three to five well-spaced trunks, and cut off any others at ground level. Follow the above instructions on how to prune a crepe myrtle, and you’ll have an attractive tree within five years.Yes — Crepe Myrtles are deciduous and will lose their leaves in winter. If you’ve planted a Crepe Myrtle and are wondering why it’s suddenly dropping leaves or looking bare during the colder months, don’t panic. It’s not dying — it’s just resting.In addition, crepe Myrtles have shallow, non-invasive roots, making them safe to plant near your house. These trees thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. They can grow up to 30 feet tall, so give them enough space.
Why don’t people like crepe myrtles?
From regular suckers that need to be trimmed regularly to a vigorous root system that makes it nearly impossible to get rid of, there are many hidden downsides of growing a crepe myrtle tree. As a nonnative, crepe myrtles also aren’t the best choice for gardeners who want to attract birds and pollinators to their yard. The best time to plant Crape Myrtles is late fall or early spring. Planting in the fall allows the roots to establish themselves before winter dormancy, while early spring planting takes advantage of the upcoming growing season.Believe it or not – Crape myrtles should be pruned like any other tree – rarely and only to correct problems and enhance their natural shape. Prune your Crape myrtles in late January to early March if necessary.Crepe Myrtle can spread up to about a 25ft canopy unless you keep it well cut back.While pruning a tree is always a good idea for long-term health, crepe murder happens when crepe myrtle trees are overpruned. Overpruning is described as cutting back of main branches or “topping”. Since crepe myrtle trees grow naturally into a pretty form, they don’t need to be trimmed too much.
Does crepe myrtle grow in the UK?
In parts of the UK where temperatures regularly drop below -5ºC, it’s best to grow crape myrtles in containers and overwinter them in a conservatory or greenhouse. The best time to plant Crape Myrtles is late fall or early spring. Planting in the fall allows the roots to establish themselves before winter dormancy, while early spring planting takes advantage of the upcoming growing season.Though any tall variety can make a tree, at some point one winter will be so harsh that the crape myrtle will die back to the ground. When that plant makes it’s comeback, new growth will come from the ground leaving behind seemingly dead tops. Don’t expect any shoots just yet.Crape Myrtle is deciduous, so the plant drops its leaves during the winter and goes dormant. The plant needs this dormant period to recover from the previous growing season and gear up for the spring. It is not very appealing visually, so there is no reason to bring the plant indoors for the winter.CARE OF CRAPE MYRTLES Their excellent drought resistance, fast growth, beautiful flowers, and low maintenance requirements make them very popular. Many cultivars have superb bark interest and great fall leaf color as well.Growth Rate and Development Patterns Crape myrtles grow fast, adding 1-2 feet each year. The first year is key for a strong root system. This sets the stage for the plant’s growth.
Where is the best place to plant a crepe myrtle tree?
Planting. Crepe myrtles love full sunshine with a minimum of 6 hours a day. They will grow in partial sun or shade but will likely not flower as much. Planting these trees in a shady location is the most frequent cause of failures to bloom. Fertilize in Spring Established, well rooted, Crape Myrtles are heavy feeders. Lightly fertilize every two weeks throughout the spring and summer months. This will promote optimal new growth. Remember, Crape Myrtles only bloom on new growth.First, you need to decide where in your garden the crape myrtle should go. They need full sun and good air circulation for the best blooms. Six hours of sun a day is the minimum requirement. It will grow in most soil as long as there is good drainage.How to grow myrtle. Grow myrtle in full sun in a west or south-facing position. It is hardy down to -10ºC if grown in a sheltered spot, or against a wall. It grows best in fertile, well-drained soil.While you can plant crape myrtles any time of year, early spring is ideal. The roots will have time to get established while temperatures are still cool to moderate, and this is less stressful for the plant.