Japanese crape myrtle

Japanese crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia fauriei) should be watered every 5-7 days. During the summer months, it is important to deeply water the tree, applying 1-2 inches of water at each watering. During the non-summer months, the trees should be watered every 10-14 days, making sure the soil is moist but not saturated. It is also important to avoid over-watering, as Japanese crape myrtle can suffer from root rot diseases if their roots stay wet for too long. Mulch the roots of the tree to help retain moisture and reduce water loss due to evaporation.

Japanese crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia fauriei) thrive in full to partial sunlight. For optimal growth, plants should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day. If planted in an area with less than 6 hours of sun, the crape myrtle will not grow as vigorously and may not flower as much as plants in full sun. During the summer months, the best time for the crape myrtle to get its sunlight is from midday until early evening. During the winter, the optimal time is the late morning and afternoon.

Japanese crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia fauriei) should be pruned once a year, in late winter before new growth begins. Pruning should remove all dead or diseased branches, as well as any crossing branches or suckers that form at the base of the plant. Removing about 1 third of the oldest, tallest stems will open up the plant to allow sunlight and air to reach the inner branches and create a pleasing shape. It is also helpful to remove any stems that are growing at an undesirable angle. Avoid pruning in summer when the plant is flowering.