When it comes to pruning dynamite crape myrtles, there are a few important guidelines to follow. These guidelines will help ensure that you prune the tree properly and promote healthy growth.
1. Cut back to another branch or bud:
When pruning dynamite crape myrtles, it’s important to always cut back to another branch or just above an outward-facing bud on a branch. This will help the tree to grow in a balanced and aesthetically pleasing manner. By cutting back to another branch or bud, you encourage new growth to occur in the direction you desire.
2. Remove unwanted branches:
To maintain the shape and structure of the dynamite crape myrtle tree, it’s important to remove any unwanted branches. These can be branches that are growing in a direction you don’t want or branches that are crossing or rubbing against other branches. By removing these unwanted branches, you can prevent them from becoming thicker than a pencil and potentially causing damage to the tree.
3. Avoid leaving stubs:
One important rule of pruning is to avoid leaving stubs. Stubs not only look unsightly, but they can also lead to disease and decay. When you make a pruning cut, be sure to make it just above a bud or branch. This will allow the tree to heal properly and prevent any potential problems.
4. Cut to the branch collar:
When removing larger branches, it’s important to cut to the branch collar. The branch collar is the swollen area where the branch joins the trunk. Cutting to the branch collar helps promote proper healing and prevents any unnecessary damage to the tree.
5. Timing of pruning:
The best time to prune dynamite crape myrtles is in late winter or early spring, before the tree starts to produce new growth. This allows the tree to recover from the pruning and encourages new growth in the coming season.
In my own experience with pruning dynamite crape myrtles, I have found that following these guidelines has resulted in healthy and beautiful trees. By taking the time to carefully prune and shape the tree, you can enhance its overall appearance and promote its long-term health.
Pruning dynamite crape myrtles requires attention to detail and a careful approach. By cutting back to another branch or bud, removing unwanted branches, avoiding stubs, cutting to the branch collar, and timing your pruning properly, you can ensure the best results for your dynamite crape myrtle tree.
