Should crepe myrtle flowers be deadheaded for optimal tree and shrub health? Expert insights on maintaining blooming plants.

Should crepe myrtle flowers be deadheaded for optimal tree and shrub health? Expert insights on maintaining blooming plants.

Crepe myrtles are beloved for their long-lasting flowers in the spring and summer. But, when the blooms start to brown, gardeners often question if they should deadhead crepe myrtle flowers. Here's the deal: it's not a simple yes or no.

A common misconception is that deadheading will trigger a second round of blooms, like many other perennials and annuals. However, crepe myrtles bloom on new growth. So, while deadheading won't cause additional flowers, it'll clean up the plant and give it a neater look, especially in small yards or containers. If you're dealing with a tree-sized crepe myrtle, though, it might not be worth the effort.

So, it's up to you! If you're free for a bit of gardening maintenance and it's manageable, feel free to deadhead. But, if you can't, don't stress. Crepe myrtle's beauty doesn't rely on deadheading.

Wondering how to deadhead or prune your crepe myrtle? Here's a quick guide for the summer season ahead.

Does deadheading crepe myrtle flowers matter?

Deadheading can be a delightful task on the summer gardening list, but don't mistake it for a must-do with crepe myrtles.

If the fading flowers are causing you displeasure, or if you enjoy a touch of gardening upkeep, here's what to know about crepe myrtle maintenance.

When and how to deadhead crepe myrtle flowers

Most regions see crepe myrtles burst into flower between summer and early fall. As the colorful blooms start to fade and brown, you can tidy up the plant.

To deadhead, grab a pair of clean, sharp pruners – like these highly rated Felco pruners available from Amazon – and snip each spent crepe myrtle flower stem down to just above a pair of healthy leaves.

Collect pruned clippings in a garden waste sack to add to your compost heap. For smaller, container-grown crepe myrtles, like the 'Purple Magic' variety from Nature Hills, this will be a quick task.

If you're working with taller specimens, use a telescopic pruner, available from Walmart, to enhance the process. If there are some faded blooms you can't reach, don't fret. Most crepe myrtle pruning happens in fall and winter, when the plant is dormant.

FAQs

Can I add brown flower clusters to my compost heap?

Yes, all pruned crepe myrtle material can be added to your compost heap after cutting into smaller pieces, no larger than two inches, to speed up the composting process.

Should I fertilize my crepe myrtle after deadheading?

Crepe myrtles are generally self-sufficient plants with little need for fertilizer. Larger, established trees growing in the ground don't require feeding. However, specimens in pots may benefit from a light feed once or twice during spring to replenish nutrients. Avoid fertilizing later in the summer to prevent late-season growth.

For more crepe myrtle advice, check out our guide on why your crepe myrtle might not be blooming and how to deadhead lilac flowers for other flowering shrubs.

Shop pruning equipment

• Red F2 Felco pruning shears for easier deadheading tasks
• Felco sharpening stone to keep your pruners in top shape
• Gardening gloves to protect your hands during pruning

Remember, while deadheading isn't as crucial for crepe myrtles as it is for other flowering plants, it can still provide a neater look to your garden. Happy pruning!

Deadheading crepe myrtle flowers is not essential for the plant as it doesn't directly impact the blooming process. However, if you prefer a tidier appearance in your garden, you can deadhead by snipping spent flowers down to healthy leaves and composting the clippings.

Read also: