When to Plant Crepe Myrtle
In order for a crepe myrtle to transplant successfully, you will need to know when to plant it. Crepe myrtle is a beautifully flowering tree that grows very well in climates that provide a long, hot summer. You will want to plant it while it is dormant, during the fall or spring. There are a few factors that will play into when you want to plant crepe myrtle.
Most often, small crepe myrtle trees are purchased from a local nursery. The fall and early spring are ideal times to plant for most areas. Planting can occur in the winter if the climate is very mild. It is possible to transplant your crepe myrtle from the container in the summer, but it will need a lot of watering! If you plant in summer, give your plant constant attention or consider setting up a drip irrigation system.
You can also grow crepe myrtle quite easily from stem cuttings. You can take new growth cuttings in May or June and hardwood cuttings from July to early fall. Young rooted cuttings can be planted in the fall or winter. Crepe myrtle also grows from seeds, which you can collect from the rounded green seed pods after the flowers fade. Dry the seeds and plant them in the spring. They should germinate in two to three weeks.
There are a number of environmental factors that should be present when you transplant your crepe myrtle. This tree loves sun, so make sure it gets full sun where it's planted, taking into consideration how the sun will move throughout the year. It will aid in keeping the new transplant watered if you plant when there is abundant rainfall. If you desire to merely move your crepe myrtle from one location to another, this is best done in the fall and winter months.
