Crape myrtles have been spectacular this summer, adding a splash of lively color to an otherwise dull late summer landscapes.
Its multiple uses make the crape myrtle a favorite landscape plant for the Piedmont.
The crape myrtle possesses several design characteristics adding more to the landscape than its flowers. Many crape myrtles have interesting bark texture, fall color and interesting seed pods which persist during the winter.
Crape myrtles are successful in urban plantings because of their small tree form (less than 30 feet) and minimal root expansion. Crape myrtles are often planted with ground covers to accentuate the interesting bark characteristics.
Crape myrtles should be set at least 10 feet from the walls of a home when used as a foundation planting.
The ideal planting site for a crape myrtle is an area with full sun in well drained soil. Crape myrtles do not flower well in shady areas.
Crape myrtles grow well in Rowan County soils, tolerating a wide pH range from 5.0-6.5 and minimal fertilization. Nutrients from spring and fall turf fertilization will suffice if the plant is located in a lawn.
Crape myrtles have a shallow, fibrous root system that should be raised when planting. Organic matter or compost, mixed with good topsoil, should be used as back-fill material.
Early spring is the best time to plant container crape myrtles. Cold damage often occurs to non-established plants. Large specimen balled-and-burlapped tree-form crape myrtles are best planted in the dormant season. Ample water should be applied to the plant during the establishment period.
Powdery mildew is a serious fungal disease problem that can be minimized by locating in an open area with good air movement. New crape myrtle cultivars have a resistance to this disease.
Aphids can also present a problem. Honeydew secreted by aphids often turns the foliage black with sooty mold. Controlling aphids with an insecticide eliminates sooty mold.
Crape myrtles can be grown as large shrubs or as a small deciduous tree. Select three to four of the strongest stems for a multi-stem tree. Prune all water sprouts that may grow along the stem or at ground level. The flowers are borne on the terminals of the current season’s growth. Basic pruning should be done between late fall and early spring. Standard crape myrtles should be replaced with dwarf or semi-dwarf varieties to avoid severe pruning.
Flower colors range from white, pink, orchid to dark red. The National Arboretum in Washington, D.C., has an extensive breeding program with hundreds of varieties being tested. The Arboretum at N.C. State University has an extensive crape myrtle collection. Go to http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/ consumer/factsheets/trees-new/lagerstroemia_indica.html for more detailed information on crape myrtle varieties.
Darrell Blackwelder is an extension agent in horticulture at the Rowan County Center of the N.C. Cooperative Extension; call 704-216-8970.
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