Introduction

Crepe myrtle trees are a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers due to their stunning blooms and attractive, textured bark. If you are planning to plant crepe myrtle trees on your property, one question that you may have is: how far apart should they be planted? The answer depends on a few different factors, which we will explore in this article.

Consider the Mature Size of the Trees

One of the primary considerations when deciding how far apart to plant crepe myrtle trees is the mature size of the trees. Depending on the variety you choose, crepe myrtle trees can grow anywhere from 10 to 30 feet tall and 6 to 25 feet wide. You must give your trees enough space to grow to their full size without becoming overcrowded or competing for resources with neighboring trees or plants.

Spacing Recommendations

The general rule when it comes to planting crepe myrtle trees is to space them at least 10 to 20 feet apart. However, the exact distance you should leave between trees depends on the variety you've chosen, as well as the size and shape of the space where you will be planting them. Here are some more specific recommendations:

Small Crepe Myrtle Trees

If you've chosen a small crepe myrtle variety, such as the dwarf or semi-dwarf varieties, you should space them approximately 6 to 10 feet apart. Smaller trees will reach their full size more quickly than larger trees, so they need less space between them. If you are planting crepe myrtles in a tight space, such as along a walkway or in a small garden bed, you can space them even closer together.

Medium-Sized Crepe Myrtle Trees

For medium-sized crepe myrtle trees, such as the Natchez or Tuscarora varieties, you should allow approximately 12 to 15 feet between each tree. These trees will require more space to grow to their full size, and you want to ensure they have enough room to spread their branches and grow to their best potential.

Large Crepe Myrtle Trees

Finally, if you've chosen a large crepe myrtle variety, such as the Catawba or Tonto, you will need to space your trees at least 20 feet apart. These trees require the most space to grow and develop fully, and you don't want them crowding each other out or shading one another too much.

Spacing for Healthy Growth

It's important to remember that the space you give your crepe myrtle trees will affect their growth and health. If you space your trees too closely together, they may compete for resources such as water, sunlight, and nutrients. This can result in stunted growth, weak branches, and a greater chance of disease or insect infestation. Give your crepe myrtle trees plenty of space to grow and thrive, and you'll be rewarded with healthy, beautiful trees for years to come.

Conclusion

So, how far apart should crepe myrtle trees be planted? The answer depends on the mature size of the trees, the variety you've chosen, and the space where you will be planting them. Generally, you should allow at least 10 to 20 feet of space between each tree, but smaller or larger trees may require more or less space. Give your crepe myrtle trees plenty of room to grow and develop, and you'll enjoy their stunning blooms and textured bark for many seasons to come.