How to Plant Crepe Myrtle in a Pot

Crepe myrtle trees are a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape, but not everyone has the space to plant them in the ground. Luckily, crepe myrtle trees can also be planted in pots, allowing you to enjoy their stunning blooms and foliage even if you don’t have a yard. Here’s how to plant crepe myrtle in a pot:

Choose the Right Pot

The first step in planting crepe myrtle in a pot is to choose the right container. The pot should be large enough to accommodate the tree’s roots, but not so large that it encourages excessive growth. For a mature crepe myrtle, a pot with a diameter of at least 36 inches is recommended. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from collecting in the soil.

Select the Right Soil

The next step is to select the right soil for your crepe myrtle. Choose a well-draining soil mix that contains perlite or sand to help prevent water from sitting in the soil. Crepe myrtles also prefer slightly acidic soil, so you may want to mix in some peat moss as well.

Plant the Crepe Myrtle

Once you have the pot and soil ready, it’s time to plant your crepe myrtle. Start by adding a layer of soil to the bottom of the pot, then place the tree’s roots on top of the soil, making sure they are spread out evenly. Fill in the space around the roots with additional soil, tamping it down gently to remove any air pockets. The top of the root ball should be level with the soil surface.

Water and Fertilize

After planting, water the crepe myrtle thoroughly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Watering once a week should be enough, but keep an eye on the moisture level of the soil and adjust as needed. Once the tree starts to show new growth, you can start fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer. Apply fertilizer according to the package instructions, usually once a month during the growing season.

Care and Maintenance

Crepe myrtle planted in pots require less maintenance than those planted in the ground, but they do still need some care to thrive. Be sure to water and fertilize regularly, and prune the tree as needed to maintain its shape and size. You may also need to repot the tree every few years as it outgrows its container.

With the right pot, soil, and care, you can enjoy the beauty of crepe myrtle even if you don’t have a garden. Planting crepe myrtle in a pot is a great way to add interest and color to your patio, balcony, or other small space.