Best Time To Plant Crepe Myrtle (2024 Updated)

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If you're looking to add a touch of color and beauty to your garden, the crepe myrtle is an excellent choice. Known for its stunning flowers and vibrant leaves, this tree is a favorite among gardeners. However, planting a crepe myrtle isn't as simple as just digging a hole and putting it in the ground. There are a few key points to consider before planting to ensure that your tree thrives.

First and foremost, it's important to choose the right time of year to plant your crepe myrtle. While you can technically plant it at any time, there are certain times that are better than others. It's generally recommended to plant in the early spring or late fall when temperatures are cooler and the soil is moist.

Another important factor to consider is the location of your crepe myrtle. These trees prefer full sun and well-drained soil, so make sure you choose a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and isn't prone to standing water.

Before planting, it's also important to prepare the soil properly. This means removing any weeds or grass from the area, loosening the soil, and adding in any necessary nutrients.

When it comes time to plant, make sure you dig a hole that's deep enough to accommodate the tree's root ball. You should also make sure to water it thoroughly after planting and keep it well-hydrated in the weeks and months that follow.

By considering these key points, you can ensure that your crepe myrtle has the best possible chance of thriving in your garden.

10 Best Time To Plant Crepe Myrtle

1. 5-Pack Centennial Spirit Crape Myrtle, Bright Red, 14'-16' Mature Height (2-4ft Tall, Rooted With Pot In Soil)

The Centennial Spirit Crape Myrtle is a stunning flowering plant that is sure to bring color and beauty to any garden. This pack of five plants boasts large, full, bright red flower clusters that bloom all summer long, creating a vibrant and eye-catching display.

This particular variety of crape myrtle is an heirloom variety, which means it has been passed down through generations due to its exceptional traits. The Centennial Spirit is extremely cold hardy and disease resistant, making it an ideal choice for gardeners in a variety of climates.

Each of the five plants in this pack is healthy and well rooted, ensuring that they will thrive in your garden. They are shipped at a height of 4', making them easy to handle and plant. With proper care, these plants will mature to a height of 14'-16', adding vertical interest to your landscape.

The Centennial Spirit Crape Myrtle is proudly grown in the USA, so you can feel good about supporting American farmers and businesses. In addition to their beauty and hardiness, these plants are also easy to care for. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, but can tolerate a variety of soil types.

Overall, the Centennial Spirit Crape Myrtle pack of five is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add color, beauty, and vertical interest to their garden. With their bright red blooms, hardiness, and ease of care, these plants are sure to be a standout in any landscape.

2. 4 Pack Muskogee (Lavender) Crape Myrtle Trees – 4 Live Plants – Quart Containers

Introducing the 4 Pack Muskogee (Lavender) Crape Myrtle Trees, a set of four live plants that boast delightful lavender blooms that last throughout the summer. These trees are grown in quart containers and are shipped to your door in strong boxes and original pots, carefully secured to ensure maximum safety during transit.

With a mature height of 25 feet, the Muskogee Crape Myrtle Trees are an excellent addition to any garden or landscape. Their extraordinary exfoliating bark remains spectacular throughout the year, providing a stunning visual display even in the winter months. These trees are shipped to you at a height of 1-2 feet, depending on the variety you choose.

The Muskogee Crape Myrtle Trees are a popular choice for their stunning lavender blooms that add color and vibrancy to any outdoor space. These trees are easy to care for and thrive in full sun, making them an ideal choice for those who love gardening but have limited time to devote to maintenance.

Each of the four plants in this pack is grown with care and attention to detail, ensuring that they are healthy and vibrant upon arrival. They are never shipped 'bare root', which means that they arrive in their original pots, ready to be planted in your garden or landscape.

In summary, the 4 Pack Muskogee (Lavender) Crape Myrtle Trees are an excellent choice for those who want to add color and vibrancy to their outdoor space. With lavender blooms that last all summer long, extraordinary exfoliating bark, and a mature height of 25 feet, these trees are sure to impress. They are shipped in super strong boxes and original pots, carefully secured to ensure that they arrive at your door in perfect condition. Order now and enjoy the beauty and elegance of these stunning trees in your own backyard!

3. Pack Of 5 Basham's Party Pink Standard Crape Myrtle With Fast Growth And 30' Maturity, 2-4' Height At Shipping, Well-Rooted In Pots.

The BASHAM'S Party Pink Standard Crape Myrtle is a beautiful and fast-growing flowering tree that is sure to impress. This pack of 5 myrtles is the fastest growing crape myrtle available, growing over 8 feet per year and reaching a final mature height of 30 feet. It is ideal for those looking for a stunning and vibrant addition to their garden or landscape.

The BASHAM'S Party Pink Standard Crape Myrtle is known for its beautiful light pink flowers that bloom all summer long. The tree's striking white exfoliating bark over winter also adds to its beauty, making it a year-round attraction. This myrtle is perfect for those who want to add a touch of color and vibrancy to their garden.

The plant is shipped in a vigorous growth state, measuring 2-4 feet tall, and is well rooted in pots with soil. This ensures that the tree remains healthy during the shipping process and can be easily planted in your desired location. The BASHAM'S Party Pink Standard Crape Myrtle is also great when pruned as a single trunk tree or a multi-stem giant, making it a versatile addition to any garden or landscape.

This myrtle is proudly grown in the USA, ensuring that it meets the highest quality standards. It is also easy to care for, requiring regular watering and fertilization to ensure optimal growth and beauty. With its stunning flowers and fast growth rate, the BASHAM'S Party Pink Standard Crape Myrtle is sure to be a standout addition to any garden or landscape.

4. Bicolor Pictotee Crape Myrtle – Patented Miniature, 1 Plant – Pink Flower With White Edge – Matures 5ft – Well-Rooted In Pot With Soil (1'-2' Tall At Shipping)

The Bicolor PICTOTEE Crape Myrtle is a patented miniature plant that will add beauty and charm to any garden or landscape. This cold hardy, disease resistant, and non-invasive root system perennial is perfect for borders, pots, hedges, or lining a garden path.

This beautiful plant blooms throughout the summer with an unusual pink flower that has a delicate white edge. The flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies, making this plant a perfect addition to any garden or landscape.

The Bicolor PICTOTEE Crape Myrtle is a hardy plant that will grow to a mature height of 4'-5'. When shipped, the plant is well-rooted, healthy, and in soil at a height of 1.5'-2'. This ensures that the plant is ready to be planted and will thrive in its new environment.

This miniature Crape Myrtle is proudly grown in the USA and is a great addition to any garden or landscape. Its unique pink and white flowers make it stand out from other plants and will add a pop of color to any space.

Overall, the Bicolor PICTOTEE Crape Myrtle is a beautiful, patented miniature plant that is perfect for adding beauty and charm to any garden or landscape. Its hardy nature, disease resistance, and non-invasive root system make it an excellent choice for those looking for a low maintenance, yet stunning plant.

5. Proven Winner Red Center Stage Crape Myrtle, 2 Gallon

The Proven Winner Red Center Stage Crape Myrtle is a stunning ornamental tree that produces cheerful cherry-colored flowers throughout the summer months. This deciduous tree is best suited for USDA zones 7-9 and can grow up to 72-144 inches in height and 96 inches in width when fully mature.

The Proven Winner Red Center Stage Crape Myrtle is a great addition to any garden or landscape due to its striking blooms and easy maintenance. To ensure the best growth, it is recommended to plant the tree in a location that receives full sun to partial shade.

During the winter months, the foliage of the Proven Winner Red Center Stage Crape Myrtle will fall off, but new growth will appear in the spring. This process is normal for deciduous trees and should not cause concern for the health of the tree.

The Proven Winner Red Center Stage Crape Myrtle is a fast-growing tree that will reach its full potential within a few years. It is important to provide adequate space for the tree to grow and spread out, as it can become quite large.

This tree is a prolific bloomer, with its expected blooming period starting in the spring and extending through the fall. The cherry-colored flowers are a vibrant addition to any garden and are sure to catch the eye of passersby.

Overall, the Proven Winner Red Center Stage Crape Myrtle is a low-maintenance, high-impact tree that is sure to make a statement in any landscape. Its stunning blooms and easy care make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners alike.

6. 4 Purple Muskogee Crepe Myrtle Trees In Quart Containers With Fibrous Root System – Live Plants From Crape Myrtle Guy.

The Muskogee Crepe Myrtle trees are a beautiful addition to any garden, with their vibrant purple blooms that last all summer long. These trees are available in a bundle of four and are shipped in quart containers, with a fibrous root system that ensures they will establish themselves quickly in their new environment.

The Crape Myrtle Guy offers live plants that are 1-2 feet tall, and which will mature to over 20 feet in height. These trees are perfect for those who want to add a touch of color to their garden, or for those who are looking for a long-lasting and memorable gift.

The Muskogee Crepe Myrtle trees are sold in packs of 1, 4, 9, 12 or 16, and are shipped in their original containers. This ensures that the trees are protected during shipping and that they arrive in good condition. The Crape Myrtle Guy never ships bare-rooted trees, as this can damage the root system and affect the tree's ability to grow and thrive.

Crape Myrtle trees are best suited to zones 6-10, but they can also be grown in containers. This means that even if you live in an area with a colder climate, you can still enjoy the beauty of these trees in your garden.

Now is the perfect time to plant your Muskogee Crepe Myrtle trees, as the roots will continue to establish themselves over the winter months and will take off in the spring. However, please note that the Crape Myrtle Guy cannot ship to western states such as California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington.

In conclusion, the Muskogee Crepe Myrtle trees are a stunning addition to any garden, with their long-lasting purple blooms and fibrous root system. The Crape Myrtle Guy offers live plants that are shipped in their original containers, ensuring that they arrive in good condition. Planting now will ensure that the trees establish themselves over the winter months and take off in the spring, providing a beautiful display for years to come.

7. Twilight Crape Myrtle – Large, Mature 22ft, Rich Purple/pink – 1 Tree

The Large Twilight Crape Myrtle is a stunning flowering plant that will add beauty and elegance to any landscape. With its rich sunset purple/pink color, this tree is sure to catch the eye and attract hummingbirds and butterflies all summer long.

This single tree is shipped at 2-4 feet tall, healthy, and well-rooted in a pot with soil, making it ready to be planted upon arrival. As a fast-growing crape myrtle, it can grow over 6 feet per year and can reach its final mature height of 22 feet in no time.

The Large Twilight Crape Myrtle is proudly grown in the USA and is an excellent choice for those looking for a low-maintenance tree that can thrive in various environments. This tree is perfect for those who want to add some color to their yard without having to put in too much effort.

The Large Twilight Crape Myrtle is known for its large flower clusters that bloom all summer long, making it a perfect choice for those who want to add some color to their landscape. The flowers are a beautiful blend of purple and pink, which is sure to give your yard a unique and elegant touch.

In addition to its stunning appearance, the Large Twilight Crape Myrtle is also known for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for those who want to create a wildlife-friendly environment. The tree provides a great source of nectar for these animals, and they will love visiting it throughout the summer months.

Overall, the Large Twilight Crape Myrtle is a great choice for those who want to add beauty and elegance to their landscape without having to put in too much effort. With its stunning color, fast growth, and ability to attract wildlife, this tree is sure to be a great addition to any yard.

8. Dallas Red Crape Myrtle – Large, 18ft+ Mature Height, Bright Cherry Red Flowers, 2-4ft Tall, Well-Rooted In Pot With Soil.

The Large Dallas Red Tree Crape Myrtle is a stunning addition to any garden or landscape. Its bright cherry red flower clusters are sure to attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, making it a beautiful and lively focal point in any outdoor space. This tree is a fast grower, maturing to a height of 18ft or more with a lovely canopy, making it an excellent choice for those looking to add some height and shade to their garden.

One of the most notable features of the Large Dallas Red Tree Crape Myrtle is its smooth gray/brown exfoliating bark, which adds a unique texture to the tree and makes it a standout piece in any setting. In the fall, the tree's foliage turns to shades of red, orange, and yellow, making it a beautiful sight to behold.

One of the best things about the Large Dallas Red Tree Crape Myrtle is that it is extremely disease and insect-resistant, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. It is also cold-hardy, making it suitable for growing in zones 6-10. This tree thrives in a variety of soil types and lighting conditions, making it a versatile option for gardeners of all skill levels.

When purchasing the Large Dallas Red Tree Crape Myrtle, it will arrive well-rooted in a pot with soil and will ship at a height of 2-4ft tall, making it easy to transport and plant. With proper care and maintenance, this tree will continue to flourish and provide beauty and shade for years to come.

Overall, the Large Dallas Red Tree Crape Myrtle is a stunning, low-maintenance option for gardeners looking to add some height and color to their outdoor space. Its bright red flower clusters, beautiful bark, and exceptional fall foliage make it a standout piece in any garden, while its disease and insect resistance and cold-hardy nature make it a practical choice for gardeners of all skill levels.

9. Pack Of 5 Acoma Dwarf Crape Myrtle With White Flowers. Matures To 7-10 Ft. 2-4 Ft Tall When Shipped, Well-Rooted In Pot With Soil.

ACOMA, Dwarf Crape Myrtle, Pack of 5, is a stunning addition to any garden or landscape. This beautiful tree produces crisp white flowers that bloom all summer long. It is perfect for use as a small tree, hedge, along a fence or to line a garden path.

The ACOMA is cold resistant through zone 5, making it a great choice for gardeners in areas with cold winters. It has a vigorous growth state and when shipped, it is well rooted in soil and a plastic pot, ensuring that it arrives at your doorstep in a healthy condition.

This pack of 5 ACOMA trees is perfect for those who want to create a cohesive look in their garden or landscape. They are all mature trees that will grow to be 7-10 feet tall, but when shipped, they are 2-4 feet tall. This means that they are easy to handle and plant, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

The ACOMA is proudly grown in the USA, ensuring that you are getting a high-quality product that has been grown using the highest standards. It is a low-maintenance tree that requires minimal pruning and care, making it a great choice for those who want to add a beautiful tree to their garden without spending a lot of time on maintenance.

In conclusion, the ACOMA, Dwarf Crape Myrtle, Pack of 5, is a beautiful and versatile tree that is perfect for any garden or landscape. Its crisp white flowers, cold resistance, and low-maintenance nature make it a great choice for gardeners of all levels. With its well-rooted state and easy-to-handle size, it is a great value for those who want to add multiple trees to their garden.

Best Time To Plant Crepe Myrtle FAQs

Are there any specific soil or watering requirements for planting crepe myrtle?

Crepe myrtles thrive in well-drained soils that are slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5. The ideal soil should be rich in organic matter, and the plant prefers full sunlight exposure. Before planting, it is advisable to amend the soil with compost or peat moss to enrich it. Crepe myrtles are drought-tolerant, but they require regular watering during the first year of planting to establish deep roots. Watering should be done deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out in between. Fertilization should occur in early spring, using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is important to avoid over-fertilization, which may lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering. Furthermore, pruning is necessary to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Can crepe myrtle be planted in the fall or winter?

Yes, crepe myrtle can be planted in the fall or winter, but it depends on the climate and location. In regions where the winter temperatures drop below 20°F, it is best to plant crepe myrtle in the spring or early summer. However, if the winter temperatures are mild and the ground is not frozen, crepe myrtle can be planted in the fall or winter.

Planting crepe myrtle in the fall or winter has some advantages, such as cooler temperatures and more rainfall, which can help the plant establish its root system before the hot summer months. However, it is important to make sure the soil is well-drained and not too wet, as excess moisture can cause root rot.

When planting crepe myrtle in the fall or winter, it is crucial to water the plant regularly until the ground freezes. Mulching can also help protect the roots and retain moisture. Overall, with proper care and attention, crepe myrtle can be successfully planted in the fall or winter.

Does the climate or location affect the best time to plant crepe myrtle?

Yes, the climate and location can affect the best time to plant crepe myrtle. In general, crepe myrtle thrives in warm climates with long growing seasons, and it is typically recommended to plant them in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild. However, in cooler climates, it may be best to plant in the spring to allow the tree to establish roots before winter sets in. Additionally, the specific location within a region can also impact the ideal planting time. For example, in areas with hot summers, it may be best to plant crepe myrtle in the fall to avoid stress from high temperatures. It is important to consider both the climate and location when determining the best time to plant crepe myrtle to ensure optimal growth and health of the tree.

How long does it take for crepe myrtle to establish after planting?

Crepe myrtles are hardy trees that can adapt to various soils and weather conditions. However, the establishment period may vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the tree at planting, soil quality, and weather conditions. Generally, crepe myrtles take two to three years to establish fully after planting. During this period, the tree will focus on developing a robust root system, which will provide the necessary nutrients and water to the rest of the plant. After the establishment period, the crepe myrtle will start to flourish, producing beautiful flowers and foliage. To ensure a successful establishment, it's essential to plant the tree in well-draining soil, provide adequate water, and avoid over-fertilization. Pruning can also help the tree establish by removing any weak or diseased branches, allowing for better nutrient distribution.

What is the optimal time of year to plant crepe myrtle?

The optimal time of year to plant crepe myrtle is during the late winter or early spring months. This is because it allows enough time for the tree to establish its roots before the heat of summer arrives. Planting during the fall is also an option as the cooler temperatures offer less stress for the tree, but it may not have enough time to fully establish before winter.

It is important to choose a location that receives full sun and has well-draining soil. Crepe myrtles are also tolerant of drought conditions, but regular watering during the first year of growth is recommended to ensure proper establishment.

Additionally, it is important to select a variety of crepe myrtle that is appropriate for the climate and size of the planting location. Proper care and maintenance, including pruning and fertilization, can also promote healthy growth and blooming.

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