Crepe myrtles (Lagerstroemia indica) are a beloved staple in Tulsa landscapes, known for their vibrant summer blooms, striking peeling bark, and graceful structure. These trees thrive in warm, sunny conditions and are relatively drought-tolerant once established.
While often considered low-maintenance, proper pruning is essential to ensure healthy growth, abundant flowering, and a naturally beautiful shape. In Tulsa’s climate—characterized by hot summers and unpredictable winters—knowing when and how to trim your crepe myrtle can make all the difference.
When to Prune Crepe Myrtles in Tulsa
⏳ The best time to prune is late winter to early spring (late February through early March).
By this time, the tree is either dormant or just about to break dormancy, making it easy to see its structure and shape it before new growth begins.
⚠️ Avoid these common timing mistakes:
❌ Pruning too early in winter – Fresh cuts can be damaged by unseasonably cold temperatures.
❌ Pruning too late in spring – If buds have already begun to form, pruning can stress the tree and reduce blooms.
❌ Pruning in summer or fall – This can remove flower buds and result in fewer blooms next season.
Understanding Crepe Myrtle Growth Habits
🌿 Crepe myrtles bloom on new wood.
This means that flowers form on the current season’s growth, making late winter or early spring pruning the perfect time to encourage fresh, new branches that will burst into bloom in the summer.
Tools & Safety Considerations
Before you start pruning, make sure you have the right tools:
✂️ Hand Pruners – For small, thin branches under ¼ inch in diameter
✂️ Loppers – For medium branches up to 1½ inches in diameter
🪚 Pruning Saw – For thicker branches
🧤 Gloves & Safety Glasses – Protect your hands and eyes from scratches and debris
🔪 Keep your tools sharp and clean! Dull blades can tear the bark, causing slow-healing wounds that attract pests and disease.
Step-by-Step Crepe Myrtle Pruning Guide
1️⃣ Remove Dead, Diseased, or Damaged Wood
🔹 Start by cutting out dead or broken branches. Dead wood is often brittle, gray, or cracked, while diseased branches may show discoloration or fungal growth.
2️⃣ Eliminate Crossing or Rubbing Branches
🔹 Branches that cross and rub against each other can create open wounds, inviting disease and pests. Remove the weaker or less well-placed branch.
3️⃣ Remove Suckers & Root Sprouts
🔹 Thin shoots often sprout at the base of the tree. Cut them at soil level to prevent energy from being wasted on unnecessary growth.
4️⃣ Shape the Canopy—But Keep It Natural!
🔹 NEVER top a crepe myrtle (a practice called “crepe murder”). This weakens the tree, causes unsightly growth, and leads to fewer flowers.
🔹 Instead, thin out crowded areas by selectively removing small branches, allowing sunlight and air to penetrate the canopy.
5️⃣ Make Clean, Precise Cuts
🔹 Always cut just above a bud facing outward or just outside the branch collar (the swollen area where a branch meets another branch or the trunk).
6️⃣ Step Back & Assess
🔹 Pruning is an art as much as a science. Step back frequently to ensure the tree maintains a balanced, natural shape.
After-Pruning Care
🌡️ Tulsa’s spring weather can be unpredictable, but crepe myrtles are hardy. No special treatment is needed after pruning.
🌱 For best results:
✅ Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support new growth.
✅ Ensure the tree gets deep but infrequent watering during dry spells.
✅ Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Crepe myrtles are one of the most beautiful trees in Tulsa landscapes, and proper pruning ensures they stay that way. By following these best practices, you’ll enjoy a healthier tree, fuller blooms, and a more graceful shape for years to come.
Need help pruning your crepe myrtle? Contact us today and let our experts take care of it for you!
