The Best Time to Prune Crepe Myrtles in Texas is During the Winter Season
Crape Myrtles are known to be low-maintenance landscaping trees. However, they still require care such as pruning during the winter month in order to maintain its health. Aside from basic care, there are still a few things that need to be considered in order to maintain a visibly healthy tree. It is recommended to prune a Crepe Myrtle during the winter since it has many benefits.
When is it best to prune a Crepe Myrtle tree?
- A Crepe Myrtle can be pruned any time of the year, but it is best recommended to prune it during the winter. Pruning is the removal of branches, buds, or roots in order to improve a tree’s health, structure and appearance.
- During the winter, the majority of the leaves fall from trees, this allows a better view to spot damaged areas or see any preventable risks the tree may have.
- Winter pruning allows exposure to pests and diseases, although pests are most active during warm weathers; during the cold months, pests are not as active and can make it the ideal time to call pest control services if needed.
What are the best tools for pruning?
- If the target is to remove branches and buds, then it is recommended to use bypass pruning shears. If the branches are longer and more wide, then long-handled looping shears may work best.
- If the target is to remove a trunk or branches larger than ¾-inch in diameter, then a pruning saw is recommended.
Pruning techniques for a Crepe Myrtle
- Although a Crepe Myrtle is a low-maintance landscaping tree, it must still be taken care of in order to maintain its health. However, if not pruned properly, it may have a negative impact on the tree.
- A basic technique is to reduce the amount of trunks necessary. Crepe Myrtle Trees are naturally multi-trunked trees. This gives the advantage to shape and help form it. It is recommended to leave at least between three to five trunks in order to maintain form and health.
- Remove any buds or suckers off the tree. Small sprouts or buds can potentially reproduce and can overwhelm the tree itself.
- Branches are a vital part that will make a crepe tree to look more of a tree rather than a bush. Removing any branches will determine the appearance of the tree.
Pruning tips
- It is important to know the aftercare when pruning a tree. Here are some things to consider when pruning a tree.
- Do not leave stubs on branches since there is a possibility of decay to enter the tree, which can ultimately cause the branch to rot and spread further into the tree.
- Avoid removing too much from the tree. In general, you shouldn’t remove more than 25% of a tree’s total leaf area. In any case it is done, it is best to wait at least two years before attempting to remove more wood.
Pruning A Crepe Myrtles in Texas? Do it in the winter.
Trees that do not require much maintenance still need basic care. Now, your Crepe Myrtle can be beautiful and healthy for the following year.
Still have more questions over pruning or basic tree care? Go to our main page to see the services we offer. We provide high quality services to all customers across the DFW area.
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