When to prune crape myrtle
Late winter, while dormant (before buds break). Blooms on this year's growth, so late-winter cuts don't remove flowers. Removing spent flower clusters in summer can trigger a smaller second bloom.
| Type | shrub/small tree |
|---|---|
| Blooms on | new wood |
| Bloom season | summer |
| When to prune | Late winter, while dormant (before buds break) |
| Stop | No heavy pruning in the 6–8 weeks before your first fall frost |
Avoid
'Crape murder' (topping trunks back to stubs) causes weak, knobby regrowth. Remove crossing, rubbing and sucker shoots instead.
Also
Deadhead in summer if reachable.
Example dates
| Place | Dates |
|---|---|
| Austin, TX (78701) | Jan 13–Feb 24 |
| Atlanta, GA (30303) | Jan 27–Mar 10 |
| St. Louis, MO (63101) | Feb 4–Mar 18 |
| Chicago, IL (60614) | Feb 13–Mar 27 |
| Denver, CO (80202) | Mar 5–Apr 16 |
| Seattle, WA (98101) | Jan 16–Feb 27 |
Every ZIP page has its own dates. Find your ZIP.
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Sources
- Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC: Crape Myrtle
- University of Georgia Extension: B961: Pruning Ornamental Plants in the Landscape
- Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC: Pruning Shrubs
Summarized in our own words from public extension publications.
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