About Crepe Myrtles 

Adorn your garden with the beautiful colours of deep purple, red, or white blooms of Crepe Myrtles. These enchanting flowers, resembling delicate crepe paper, add a touch of elegance to any outdoor space. With their deciduous nature, they embrace seasonal changes, revealing their stunning bark textures. For the small garden or limited space, there are compact-size options available. 

Benefits of having Crepe Myrtles 

• Tolerates Pollution

The plant is resistant to pollution like dust, smog and other airborne pollutants, due to their thick and waxy leaves. If you live somewhere near a high-traffic area, then this plant is a boon for you. Crepe can help improve the air quality in these environments by filtering pollutants and releasing oxygen. 

• Withstand Drought 

These plants have the ability to tolerate periods of reduced watering and are well-adapted to dry climates. Their deep root systems enable them to access water from deeper soil layers, making them more tolerant of drought conditions. With their ability to thrive in water-stressed environments, Myrtles is a smart choice for water-conscious gardeners seeking plants that do not require frequent watering.

• Pollinators Magnet

Crepes are not only visually stunning but also serve as a magnet for pollinators in the garden. Their vibrant and nectar-rich flowers attract a variety of insects, bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These pollinators play a crucial role in the ecosystem by facilitating the transfer of pollen and promoting plant reproduction and biodiversity.

• Ageless Beauties

The plants are known for their long lifespan, making them a valuable addition to any garden. These hardy plants can thrive for several decades, providing beauty and enjoyment for generations to come. Their longevity allows them to become focal points, creating a sense of timelessness and enduring natural beauty. Planting Myrtles ensures a lasting investment and a lasting legacy in your outdoors.

• Varied Designing Features

By utilising them strategically in your garden you can achieve specific aesthetic goals and enhance the visual appeal of your outdoor space:

• Flowering Tree

These can be planted as standalone trees in a landscape design. Their beautiful blooms and attractive foliage make them ideal for creating focal points and adding height and visual interest to the garden.

• Hedge

To create hedges or screens, crepe myrtles can be used. With their dense foliage and ability to tolerate pruning, they can be planted in rows to form a living barrier that provides privacy, screens unsightly views, and adds a continuous line of blooming flowers during the summer.

How to Care & Maintain Crepe Myrtles 

• Unobstructed Spaces

Since the plant has rapid growth, it needs enough place to thrive where it is not bothered by any hanging element, walls or roof. Plus, under the earth, the plant needs horizontal space to spread its roots.

• Wet or Dry Soil

Crepe Myrtles prefer well-drained soil and are better suited to slightly dry conditions. Therefore, avoid waterlogged or overly wet soil, as it can lead to root rot and other issues.

• Times of Fertilising 

For optimal growth, newly planted Crepe myrtles in sandy or poor soil benefit from liquid fertiliser every two weeks in summer. Established plants require yearly slow-release fertiliser in spring for bright flowers and healthy growth.

• Pruning Period

Pruning Crepe Myrtles should be done in late winter or early spring. 

• Remove dead or damaged branches, 
• thin out the centre for air circulation, 
• shape the plant if desired, and 
• avoid excessive pruning. 

Proper pruning helps maintain health and aesthetics.

• Protection from Fungus

Crape myrtle is prone to powdery mildew, sooty mould, and various fungal infections. Taking preventive measures such as practising proper watering techniques, maintaining good plant hygiene, and applying fungicides, can help reduce the risk of fungal infections.