Crape Myrtle Full of Colors
The crape myrtle is an excellent tree for the landscaping in our area.
The scientific name is Lagerstroemia indica. It is a native of China with many colored variations of flowers and a long blooming period in Louisiana.
Average height is about 20 feet with a spread of about fifteen feet at maturity.
Brief Recognition Factors:
- Exfoliating bark.
- Summer and Autumn flowering.
- Small flowering tree.
- Picturesque form.
- Many color flowers.
Negative aspects of the tree are: needs full sunlight for showy flowers and form, gets leafspot, aphids and powdery mildew, suckering or sprouting at base of tree.
Overall this is a very good tree to plant in and around the home or business.
These are many new varieties with resistance to leaf spot and showy colored flowers.
One of the problems occasionally complained about the crape myrtle is the lack of flowering. Possible reasons include:
- Excessive shade – crape myrtles need 8 hours of full sun for optimum flowering.
- Variety – some varieties do not flower as vigorously as others.
- Heavy infestation of aphids – common insect on tree that need to be controlled.
- Lack of fertilization – crape myrtles need fertilization for new growth.
- Improper pruning – Drastic pruning or pruning after new growth in the spring can delay summer flowering. Prune during winter months.
- Leaf spot – Foliage diseases decrease plant vigor and flowering. Spray with recommended fungicide to control leaf spot.
Trees and Hurricanes
Trees are a smart addition to the landscape. Often time we forget to select the right tree for the right place. It can be our fault or we can inherit the problem. Regardless of the reason, now is a good time to evaluate your trees for hazard problems. Here are a few quick checks and things to look for around home and businesses.
Know the species of the tree. Is it prone to decay? How long is the life span? Example of tree species here that have problems - Water Oak.
Check the health of the tree. Look for defects such as root rot and internal trunk decay. A tree can appear perfectly healthy on the outside and have serious flaws that require attention. Examples of tree species here: Red Maples and hackberry’s.
Is the structure strong or weak? Know the species of tree and its branch structure strength. Live Oak – strong, Bradford Pear – weak
Evaluate previous cultural procedures. Have the roots been cut during construction? Is the tree located near a paved surface? Has the tree been topped or poorly pruned? These situations can increase likelihood of failure.
Is the canopy very dense? Trees with dense canopies can be made more wind resistant by removing small branches from the outer edge of the canopy. Interior branches should not be removed.
If you have questions, you can call me and I can give you information about your tree care.
Vegetables to Plant in August
Start bush snap beans and bush limas. Plant seed for cucumbers, collards, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, Chinese cabbage, summer squash, southern peas, mustard, and green shallot sets.
Mid August, plant Irish potatoes and start seed for head lettuce and beets. Transplant broccoli and Brussels sprouts.
Question: What is a good spacing to plant cabbage seeds on the row?
Answer: Space cabbage seeds about 12 to 15 inches apart for maximum yield potential.