Must crape myrtles be pruned? No, it is not advised.
Another question may be, if a crape myrtle has suckers growing from the base, can or should they be pruned? Yes, they should be pruned and you should cut them at the ground level.
What if branches are crossed and rubbing, can or should they be pruned? Yes, if desired. Cut as far back behind the crossing point as desired.
What if branches are at eye-level and could cause injury? Yes, prune them, by limbing up the tree.
What if branches have grown and are touching a structure, or a roof, can they be pruned? Yes.
When is the best time to trim or cut back crepe myrtles? Early spring before new growth is the best time to prune crape myrtles. Whenever you prune, you cause the tree to generate new growth. New growth that starts now will not have time to harden off before frost.
Watch a video about How to Prune or Trim Crape Myrtles:
Additional Resources:
- From the Archives: Pruning Crape Myrtles for a Repeat Bloom
- Characteristics of Crape Myrtle Varieties
- Variety Characteristics by Size
- Crape myrtle bark scale study reveals tree treatments to fight pest
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