Crape myrtles
Jewel of the summer garden
It seems as though the hot days of summer are behind us, and did you notice the heat-loving crape myrtles shine? Long a beloved staple in southern gardens as large bushes or small trees, crape myrtle has become more popular with zone 6 Midwestern gardeners, and for good reason as this fast growing plant has much to recommend for giving a prominent spot in the garden. These plants are considered fast growing and have a bloom time that usually lasts for twelve to fifteen weeks starting in July. Because we are at the north edge of the growing range for crape myrtles, it is possible to experience some stem die back in severe winters. Simply prune back any dead stems once they have leafed out and they will fill in quickly once they begin sending out new spring growth. I would recommend a measure of patience in the spring with these plants, as they are one of the last shrubs to come out of dormancy.
The one condition to consider before selecting a crape myrtle is location. These plants absolutely need full sun, or they just don’t bloom well. Also, if the area is protected from dry winter winds, die back from the cold can be minimized. If you have found the perfect spot in your landscape, then the next step is selection.
One of the exciting benefits of crape myrtle is the variety of cultivars on the market. The number of choices has really grown over the last decade, and new named cultivars are released every year. The trend, as is with many newer plants introductions, is a more compact form and improved disease resistance. There are varieties available in dwarf form 18” to 3’, mid-sized 3’ to 6’, and larger at 6’ to 8’ and potentially even 10’ or 12’ (given a well-protected location). In addition to mature size variation there is the stunning array of bloom colors available. Crape myrtle flowers can be white, red, coral and many shades of purple and pink. Leaf color is another option available, as these plants can have glossy green or dark burgundy colored leaves.
Crape myrtles also offer the landscape several seasons of interest. Along with the stunning display of delicate fragrant flowers in summer, the foliage of these plants will light up the fall garden with fiery shades of orange and red, and even some dark maroon-purple tones. In winter the bark of more mature specimens will show beautifully textured cinnamon and grey colored exfoliating patterns. The dried bloom heads are also an attractive feature, so resist deadheading late in the season.
It may not be ideal to plant in the high temps of summer, but I do highly recommend getting out to garden centers to at least look at the many varieties available and make notes on your favorites. This way, when you are ready in the fall (or even the coming spring) to plant you will know which one you want to purchase, as it’s not likely you will find plants in bloom at these times. Crape myrtles can be a great new summer jewel for your summer garden. Give one a try. You and all who visit your yard will be stunned by their beauty.
Crape Myrtle Tips
If they get too big for their space, they can be pruned. It is best to do this in spring before the plant starts to leaf out, especially if a hard prune is being done.
It’s the first of May and they look dead. Don’t react too harshly and dig them out yet. Crape myrtle needs warm temps to break dormancy, and if spring is cool through Mother’s Day they may not start to leaf out until very late in the spring.
Your crape myrtle isn’t blooming. It may take a couple seasons of growing to get a really stunning display of blooms. Other caused could be not enough sun exposure, also over fertilizing or over watering can cause lots of growth but no bloom set.
Watch for pests, aphids and Japanese beetles can become problems. Mildew on the leaves can also occur.
Travis Karns is Assistant Nursery Manager at Suburban Lawn & Garden, 105th & Roe, Overland Park, Kan.
To view images of crape myrtle in bloom, visit the online version of the September 2016 issue at KCGMAG.com.