Crape myrtles are one of the most iconic landscape trees in the South, with their stunning summer blooms and beauty. But every year, we see homeowners unknowingly butchering these trees with aggressive pruning—often referred to as “crape murder.”
If you want bigger, healthier blooms and a tree that maintains its natural beauty, it’s important to prune correctly—and at the right time. Here’s everything you need to know about proper crape myrtle pruning.
1. When Should You Prune Crape Myrtles?
Timing is everything when it comes to pruning. The best time to prune crape myrtles is in late winter to early spring, before new growth begins.
- Ideal Timing: Late February through March
- Why? Pruning during dormancy ensures fresh, healthy growth in spring without risking damage from cold snaps.
- What Happens If You Prune Too Late? Cutting into actively growing branches can delay blooms and weaken the tree.
2. How to Prune Crape Myrtles the Right Way
A well-pruned crape myrtle should look natural and elegant, not like a hacked-off stump. Follow these steps to ensure healthy, vibrant growth:
Step 1: Remove Dead or Diseased Branches
Use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut off dead, damaged, or crossing branches that could hinder growth.
Step 2: Thin Out the Interior
Remove small, spindly branches from the center to improve airflow. This reduces disease risk and keeps the tree looking neat.
Step 3: Shape the Canopy
Trim back only the topmost branches to encourage a natural, rounded canopy. Do not chop the tree back to thick stumps. This weakens the tree and leads to unsightly, weak regrowth.
Step 4: Make Clean Cuts
Always make cuts at a slight angle just above a bud or branching point. Never leave jagged edges or tear bark, as this can invite pests and disease.
3. Common Pruning Mistakes (Avoid “Crape Murder”!)
Some pruning mistakes can cause more harm than good. Here’s what not to do:
- Do not cut crape myrtles back to stubs—this weakens the tree, causes excessive sprouting, and ruins its natural shape.
- Do not over-prune young trees—they need time to develop a strong structure before heavy shaping.
- Do not prune too late in spring or summer—this can delay blooming or even reduce flowers for the season.
4. Why Call Steven’s Wack-N-Sack for Professional Pruning?
Pruning crape myrtles is an art and a science—when done right, it leads to stronger trees, better blooms, and a more beautiful landscape. But when done incorrectly, it can take years to fix the damage.
- We prune at the right time for maximum blooms
- We shape trees naturally without stunting growth
- We clean up and haul away all debris—no mess left behind
Book your professional crape myrtle pruning today. Let’s get your trees ready for a spectacular spring bloom.
