Years ago, Crape Myrtle trees could only be enjoyed by our neighbors in the south. Thanks to Mother Nature and the ever changing climate along with some cross breeding, that is no longer the case. Hardy to zone 7, Crape Myrtle trees and shrubs flourish in the Long Island climate and offer an abundance of blooms when many other plants are done for the season. This beautiful tree offers lilac-like flowers in pink, red, purple and white from July to September. Depending on the variety, they can grow anywhere from 5’ all the way up to 25-30’ and make a great specimen plant in the yard or even a nice hedge. Easy to grow and maintain, crapes have become one of Long Island’s most popular tree in the past 5-10 years.Crape Myrtle trees have another awesome feature which is often overlooked, their bark. When they are not in bloom or in the dead of winter, specimens will exhibit a variety of colors and patterns from green to brown to grey on multiple stems. Some even have a peeling bark look which is a real showstopper in the landscape. If you are looking for a tree with year round interest with long lasting flowers, this tree is a must have.
Crape Myrtles are also easy to plant, grow and care for. When planting, be sure to mix your existing soil with plenty of rich compost to give it the nutrients it needs to flourish. Each year you can top dress the area with additional compost or use an organic tree fertilizer like the Dr. Earth tree and shrub blend to keep nutrients high from year to year. Make sure you keep the soil around the tree well watered in the first year until the plant establishes. Pruning is also a piece of cake. You have the option to just let the tree go which will produce rigid branching that will give a full, upright form or you can prune it back to the large leader stems. The later method will allow it to grow a few feet on each branch and the heavy blooms will weigh down the fresh, new growth to give you more of a weeping habit. Either way, it will make for a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape.Easy to grow, tons of color, year round interest, almost zero maintenance, no serious pests or diseases!!! What else can you ask for! If you have been looking for a tree or shrub, I cannot recommend a better plant. Come in and see our wonderful selection throughout the summer months.