When to Plant Crepe Myrtle Tree in KY

Crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) is a beautiful ornamental tree that adorns gardens and streetscapes in Kentucky with its showy clusters of pink, white, lavender, or red flowers in summer. The tree is also called crape myrtle, crepeflower, or Indian lilac, and is known for its lovely bark that peels away in a variety of colors, from cinnamon to slate gray. If you're planning to plant crepe myrtle in your garden in Kentucky, timing is crucial to ensure the tree's growth and flowering.

Planting time

The best time to plant crepe myrtle in Kentucky is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. In general, you can plant the tree anytime between late February and mid-April, when the fall frost is over but the spring heat hasn't set in yet. Planting crepe myrtle too early in the winter can expose it to the cold and damage its tender buds, while planting it too late in the spring can stress it out and make it harder for it to establish its roots before summer.

Soil and location

Crepe myrtle grows well in well-drained, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. In KY, crepe myrtle thrives in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9, which cover most parts of the state except for the northernmost regions. When selecting a location for the tree, consider its mature height and spread, which can range from 10 to 30 feet tall and wide, depending on the variety. Crepe myrtle also needs enough space to grow and good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Planting process

To plant crepe myrtle in Kentucky, follow these steps:

Choose a healthy tree from a reputable nursery that has a straight trunk, well-spaced branches, and no signs of damage, pests, or diseases.

Dig a hole that is two to three times wider than the root ball and just as deep.

Remove the tree from its container or burlap wrapping and inspect the roots. If the roots are tightly circling the root ball, gently loosen them or make vertical cuts to encourage new growth.

Place the tree in the center of the hole and backfill with the soil mixture of topsoil, compost, and peat moss or other organic matter. Tamp the soil lightly to remove air pockets and make a mound around the base of the tree to hold water.

Water the tree thoroughly and deeply to settle the soil and promote root growth. Repeat watering regularly, especially during the first year of growth, to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Apply a slow-release fertilizer or compost around the base of the tree in early spring and midsummer to provide nutrients.

Prune the tree in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears, to remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches and to shape the tree lightly.

Caring for crepe myrtle

Once you've planted crepe myrtle in Kentucky, it needs basic care to thrive:

Water regularly, especially during the first year, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Fertilize in early spring and midsummer with a balanced slow-release fertilizer or compost.

Prune in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or diseased wood and to shape the tree lightly. Avoid overpruning, which can reduce flowering.

Watch for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and scale insects, and treat them with organic or chemical controls as needed.

Prevent fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, anthracnose, and Cercospora leaf spot by providing good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and treating with fungicides if necessary.

With the right planting and care, crepe myrtle can be a lovely addition to your garden in Kentucky.