This distorts the appearance of the tree tremendously. Such massacre results in thin, arching stems and completely destroys the architectural beauty of the free-growing crape myrtle. Pruning is recommended only to remove an over-density of branches and crossing limbs. Cutting off old flower heads in summer can promote a second and third round of flowering, though. Over-fertilizing creates abundant foliage at the expense of blooms.
Crape myrtles are a magnet for aphids, upon whose excrement sooty mold grows.
This can give the leaves a gray, sooty coating that is not harmful, but is unsightly. Control aphids with a soapy water solution. Moist, well drained soil. In general, trees are extremely vigorous and hardy. By cuttings from medium wood in early fall or hard wood in winter.