Don’t let old growth see another spring.
Getty Images / Joe_Potato
There are few summer sights more iconic than acrepe myrtlein full bloom.
They grow easily throughout the South, filling yards with months of vibrant blooms.
Credit:Getty Images / Joe_Potato
Want to check that youprune your crepe myrtlesat just the right time?
Here’s the best time to cut back crepe myrtles and what to do if you miss the window.
Pruning your crepe myrtles too early can actually have a couple of negative impacts.
Credit:Getty Images / magicflute002
First, you’ll remove any of the buffer between your plant and a harsh winter season.
For example, if there’s a bad frost, it will damage the ends of the branches first.
If those branches have already been pruned, you’re putting more of the plant at risk.
And, second, a pruned crepe myrtle simply leaves you with unattractive stumps all winter long.
But this"crepe murder,“as it’s called, is unnecessary.
All the plant needs is a light trim to keep it the desired size and shape.
Getty Images / magicflute002
What Should You Do If You Miss The Time Frame?
Luckily, easygoing crepe myrtles won’t mind if you miss the window to cut them back.
And, don’t stress over whether your lack of pruning will impact the bloom season.
Cutting back is simply for your own personal taste in shaping the plant’s silhouette.
