Pruning Crape Myrtles

I. Improper Pruning (the most common)

     Dehorning (or detopping) is, sadly, a widespread practice every spring with many crape myrtles. Fortunately the plant can withstand such abuse. Proper selection of the right cultivar (i.e. size and growth habit) should take priority over improper pruning if this is justified by space considerations.

     Contrary to popular beliefs, excessive pruning in crape myrtles does not induce heavier flowering, but rather detracts from having it due to the likely removal of significant plant carbon and nutrient (i.e. food) reserves.    

Another example of excessive pruning, which also highlights poor judgment with planting site selection (the heat load on this plant is likely very high!)

II. Proper Pruning

A very good example of how minimum and judicious pruning (mostly removal of dead flower and fruit structures, along with light thinning and removal of dead and rubbing branches) highlights the natural character of crape myrtles, as well as enhancing its flowering performance the following growing season.