crape myrtle

The amount and frequency of watering a crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia 'Apalachee') varies depending on factors such as your climate, the weather, and your soil type. In general, crape myrtles thrive with 1 to 2 inches of water per week, either from rain or from irrigating. If possible, water the plant early in the morning to reduce the chance of plant diseases. During periods of hot weather or drought, you should increase watering frequency to about 3 times per week. Check the soil for moisture regularly, and if it feels dry, water the plant deeply. Soak the soil around the plant about 6 inches down. Avoid wetting the foliage of the crape myrtle when you water in order to reduce susceptibility to leaf diseases.

Crape myrtles need full sunlight - at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day - in order to achieve optimal growth. While they can still thrive in areas that get partial shade in the late afternoon as long as there is bright morning light, crape myrtles flower more prolifically and stay healthy when receiving more sunlight throughout the day. During summer months in the northern hemisphere, crape myrtles should receive full sunlight from mid-morning to mid-afternoon, typically lasting between 8-10 hours. In wintertime, they should have sunlight from mid-morning until the early afternoon, usually around 6-8 hours.

Crape myrtles require pruning each year to maintain a healthy and attractive appearance. Pruning should be done in late winter to early spring - usually late February to late March - once the tree is dormant and before new growth begins in the spring season. Pruning should remove no more than 1-third of the crape myrtle's branches in any single season. This will help the shrub maintain a balanced, attractive form. When pruning, remove dead or broken branches, as well as any branches that crisscross or rub against each other. Pruning should be done selectively so that the original shape and size of the tree is maintained.