Sarah’s Favorite Crape Myrtle Tree

Stunning white blooms and beautiful fall foliage Transform your landscape with this outstanding crape myrtle, which is renowned for its impressive large white blooms that burst into life during the summer. These long-lasting flowers not only bring vibrancy to your garden but also attract pollinators, creating a livelier space. As the seasons change, you'll be delighted to observe the green leaves transition to stunning shades of red and orange in the fall, providing an eye-catching display that extends the plant's beauty throughout the year. One of its most captivating features is the rich cinnamon-colored bark, which adds texture and visual interest to your yard even during the winter months. As one of the most cold-hardy varieties, this crape myrtle is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for resilience in their landscapes. The combination of stunning blooms, striking fall color, and year-round appeal makes this tree a versatile addition to any garden. Planting & Care 1. Planting: Plant or repot within 4 weeks of arrival. Choose a location with full sun and well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and place the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with a mix of native soil and compost, then water thoroughly. Apply a 3-inch settled layer of mulch extending about 3 feet around the tree, keeping mulch pulled back a few inches from the trunk. 2. Watering: Water regularly, up to 2–3 times per week during the first year after planting to help establish strong roots. Once established—which may take up to three years—this crape myrtle is relatively drought tolerant but will benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells. 3. Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage healthy growth and shape the tree as desired. Remove any dead or crossing branches to improve airflow and reduce disease pressure. Maintain no more than five main trunks, removing root suckers as they appear. Avoid topping crape myrtles, as this practice weakens the tree and reduces vigor. 4. Fertilizing: In early spring, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer such as Espoma Garden Food® 10-10-10 to support vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excess nutrients can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of blooms.