When Is The Best Time To Trim Crape Myrtle Bush?…
Teresa Asked
When is the best time to trim crape myrtle bush? And how do I winterize perennial plants that are grown in containers?
The Gardener’s Answer
Hello, Teresa: There are many varieties of crape myrtles (lagerstroemia). With all the new cultivars, these sun-loving plants are available in an array of colors as well as sizes. They are grouped into three categories: shrubs, multi-trunked trees, and single-trunked trees. The best time to prune your crape myrtle is during the winter or early spring months while the plant is dormant and before it puts on new growth. It is not necessary to prune your crape myrtle unless your intentions are to shape or turn a shrub into a tree form. If you have suckers growing up from the base of the plant, you should remove these as soon as you notice them. It is not necessary to prune your crape myrtle in order for it to bloom next summer. For more information on pruning trees here in Kentucky, visit www.ca.uky.edu/agc/pubs/ho/ho45/ho45.htm.
Over-wintering perennials in containers is sometimes a risk, but it all depends on the hardiness of the plant in combination with the winter weather. For best results you want to make sure that the roots are insulated with plenty of soil surrounding them. The idea is to create an environment that is similar to being planted in the ground. One option is to actually plant the container in the ground. This may or may not be feasible depending on the size of your container. Good air circulation under the container is important. If the ground freezes and the container is in direct contact with the ground, it will freeze as well. If you can lift the container off the ground by placing a brick or something strong and sturdy under the container, it will allow for air to flow, reducing the chances of the container freezing and cracking, and exposing the soil/roots to the elements. Adding a thin layer of mulch, no more than 2 inches around the plants, will help to insulate them. You will want to stop feeding your plants at this point since encouraging them to put on new growth will make them more susceptible to winter damage. Plants still need moisture during the winter months but the amount they receive from rain and snow should be sufficient.
