BASIC CARE:

·         Crapemyrtles love the heat, so put them in the sunniest spot you have.  They will love the extra heat that occurs near a south-facing wall or fence. They are extremely drought-resistant once established.

·         Fertilize in spring, because they bloom on ends of new growth. Preferably Plant-tone or comparable dry fertilizer. Liquid feeds of Miracle-gro are fast-acting but need to be repeated.

·         Trim in early spring (April or early May), ideally before new growth ensues. Later trimming will not hurt the plant, but may delay or eliminate flowering. If you trim a branch, it needs at least 5-6 weeks of hot weather before it blooms.  So, hedging a crapemyrtle in late June may ruin your chances to enjoy its blooms.

·         Mulch generously in the fall. This protects the root zone from freezing completely and aids survival.

CRAPEMYRTLE NO-NOs:

·         Do not fertilize after August 1^st. The resulting new growth will not harden off properly before frost and will die back in winter.

·         Do not prune heavily after August 1^st. Again, the resulting new growth after pruning will not be ready for winter.

·         Do not plant in an area that puddles after a rain. Plant in soil that drains very well, such as a sloping area or raised bed.       

For more info on the best varieties for zone 6: Hardiness Chart

Keep in mind that Crapemyrtles are naturally late to come out in spring, but then grow rapidly with the onset of hot weather. So be patient, and Enjoy!