Wilco Extension Office: Solving crepe murder

  • A dormant crepe myrtle tree during winter showing a wide mulched area up to the drip line. This decreases grass and weed competition for water and nutrients.
    A dormant crepe myrtle tree during winter showing a wide mulched area up to the drip line. This decreases grass and weed competition for water and nutrients.
  • Improper pruning showing torn and ripped bark.
    Improper pruning showing torn and ripped bark.
  • An improper flush cut, branch collar removed with poor recovery.
    An improper flush cut, branch collar removed with poor recovery.
  • A good pruning cut having the branch collar intact showing excellent recovery.
    A good pruning cut having the branch collar intact showing excellent recovery.
    I look forward to seeing the fabulous summer blooms from the monoculture of crepe myrtle trees in front of the stark condos here in Georgetown. I enjoy the eye-level canopy of bright pinkish blooms from just outside of my second-floor apartment patio. The variable-colored bark and unusual multi-trunk shapes provide extra interest.Now is the time to prune your crepe myrtle. These trees fl...

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