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[W640]When To Prune Crepe Myrtles

by Michael Russell, Mic

Pruning that is done by the amateur gardener is carried out to maintain a plant that has been already trained in a nursery. However, many keen gardeners grow shrubs and even trees from cuttings and seed, even though it is better to leave a large tree to the experts, because of the special equipment required and the risks involved. The principles that must guide the gardener when he picks up a pair of secateurs should always be 'a well pruned plant is a beautiful and healthy plant' and 'pruning well carried out should almost be undetectable'.

Trees do not necessarily have to be pruned. The reason for pruning them is to shape or keep a specimen that displays the finest features of a particular species. Any work carried out should be limited to encouraging or assisting the natural development of each plant as it grows from a young tree into a fully grown one and to avoid defects that might turn out to be harmful to the tree.

Shrubs can be pruned to emphasize their ornamental features but it is important to strike a balance between encouraging the production of flowers and allowing the plant to continue to grow and develop. Another objective in pruning is to maintain the characteristic form of each species, encouraging the branches and stems to develop and grow in a way that allows the plant to achieve its natural potential.

Sometimes pruning is needed to encourage the growth of a properly balanced plant. The weakest shoots may need to be cut back hard to one, two or three shoots to stimulate vigorous growth or it may be necessary to reduce by two or three shoots only the most vigorous and strongly growing branches so as not to put too much stress on the plant's other stems.

Pruning is also carried out to maintain the youngest shoots which are the most productive. The last but by no means the least important aim in pruning is to protect the plant's health.

All branches that are dry, diseased, broken or damaged in any way should be removed by cutting into the nearest healthy wood immediately above a well-developed shoot. Smaller branches that are too slender, too thick or that cross in the center of the plant or any that are badly positioned should also be removed by cutting at the base of the young wood but not the main branch from which it is growing.

These actions, which are intended to eliminate possible sources of disease and to maintain an open, regular shape into which sun and air can penetrate freely, should be carried out annually on all plants regardless of when they flower. In areas with a very hot climate this can be the end of summer. In cold areas it is better to wait until the end of winter. Where there is snow it is prudent to anticipate possible damage and in autumn cut the longest braches back or tie them into bundles.

Observation and an understanding of the ways in which a plant grows are useful when deciding if and when to prune. First it is important to check whether the plant flowers on wood grown during the same year as the flowering taking place or on wood that grew in a previous year. This knowledge will dictate the best time to prune.

Today's backyard is more than just a place where the lawn needs mowing. It can be a dynamic living space, an extension of the home where you can indulge in your favorite activities. For many, the backyard has come to symbolize peace and quiet, and Crepe Myrtles are ideal for creating your very own inner sanctum of privacy.

Crepe myrtles are ornamental trees that provide shade from thick foliage and boast colorfully fragrant flowers. Scientists worked for decades to create crepe myrtle hybrids that are more resistant to crippling pests and diseases, and now these trees flourish with brighter colors and in more growing zones than ever before.

The Fast Growing Trees Online Nursery has crepe myrtles that are in high demand: the Dynamite Crepe Myrtle, Red Rocket Crepe Myrtle, Natchez Crepe Myrtle, Pink Velour Crepe Myrtle and Muskogee Crepe Myrtle. These hybrids bloom all summer long and stay colorful well into autumn. They also have an nicely colored bark, are easy to care for and are free of debilitating diseases and pests. These hybrids are also adaptable to colder climates and can now be grown in more areas than ever before.

One of the most popular and best selling Crepe Myrtles available is the Dynamite Crepe Myrtle. A vividly colored tree, the Dynamite Crepe Myrtle boasts an abundance of bright red flowers that start to bloom in July and last for 100 days. It's considered to be an excellent ornamental tree for residential lawns and gardens, and requires minimal upkeep.

This hardy tree will thrive in most climate zones and is highly resistant to powdery mildew and drought. Fast Growing Trees Nursery Manager Travis Zboch said this is a popular tree because it blooms red in the summer months, and offers a vibrant backdrop for barbecues, cookouts and any family gathering. "You can really impress your neighbors and friends with these gorgeous trees," he said. "You'll want to invite people over all the time just so you can show off your backyard."

The Red Rocket Crepe Myrtle is another crepe myrtle with showy red flowers. This tree starts to bloom in July and continues through September, giving you 120 days of full color. The Red Rocket is the fastest growing crepe myrtle and the thick cone-shaped clusters of flowers can reach up to 20 inches.

One of the first hybrids ever developed is the Natchez Crepe Myrtle. Its gleaming white blooms flower in June and last for 110 days. In the winter months the bark exfoliates, revealing a handsome cinnamon trunk. The Natchez is highly tolerant of extreme heat and cold and is ideal for growing zones 7 through 10. Resistant to aphids and powdery mold, this tree reaches heights of 25 to 30 feet.

For those of you looking for softer shades of color, consider the Muskogee and Pink Velour Crepes Myrtles. The Muskogee is ideal for any backyard with its soft lavender flowers, which begin to bloom in June and last for 120 days. The Pink Velour is true to its name and has brilliant pink flowers that will certainly drawn attention to your yard. These fast growing trees require little pruning and are highly resistant to pests and powdery mold. "Backyards are often thought of as a family centered space," Zboch said. "These trees can transform yours into a really comfortable place to relax."

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Both Michael Russell & Deborah Bartley are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.

Michael Russell has sinced written about articles on various topics from Celebrities, Dieting and Diabetes Treatment. Michael RussellYour Independent guide to . Michael Russell's top article generates over 2240000 views. to your Favourites.

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