Starting Seeds, Two Methods, Crepe Myrtle

Don't forget to like and SUBSCRIBE! Find us at www.iflowergarden.com! Email: [email protected] Plant Name: Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia) Perennial as a bush or tree Zones: Cold Hardy through zone 5 Light Exposure: Love sun, will grow in part shade but blooms are reduced. Moisture Requirement: Not drought tolerant and will need supplemental watering during dry periods. Soil Preference: Very tolerant but clay soil should be amended with sand. Soil needs to drain well. Seeds: Produced on plant after it blossoms in a seedpod. Many seeds per seedpod. Seeds most likely will not match parent plant, can be started indoors. Propagation: To obtain a plant the same as the parent plant use a root cutting or regular cutting. Planting Depth of Seed: 1/4 inch Planting Space: 15 feet between each shrub Plant Height: 10 to 30 feet tall Plant Width: 15 to 25 feet wide Plant Color: Pink, red and white are the most common colors. Bloom: Mid to late summer. Care: To obtain a tree like plant, Crepe Myrtle needs to be pruned back at the base in the spring to remove new growth and suckers at ground level. Leave 3 or four main branches to grow tall. Do not prune off at base if you want a bush. Prune back or leave seedpods in the fall (they add some interest visually). Where to Grow: Makes a nice tree line. Any where you would like some shade but not the solidness of a hardwood tree. Use as a bush for accents. Unique Characteristics: Attractive through all seasons, spring foliage, summer blooms, fall seedpods and foliage, winter dark brown seedpods. Companion planting: Part shade to shade perennials can be planted under the tree once it is established. Fun Fact: You can mow a Crepe Myrtle with the riding mower and it will survive! Trust me I know.