Crape Murder
At this time of year, especially on commercial sites, I start to notice the removal of 50% or more of the Crape Myrtles foliage. Due to the regenerative abilities of this plant, removal of major portions of the trees foliage and stems has become commonplace. While the tree is able to regenerate the growth, it is certainly not an acceptable pruning practice. The aesthetic appeal of the trees structure is completely lost during this practice, leaving only vegetative sprouts to fill the void. Crape Myrtles can be effectively reduced in other ways, without affecting the structure forever. A byproduct of severe “topping” of the trees is an overabundance of flowers being produced on weak sprouts, causing the growth to bend down towards the ground. This results in even more pruning to raise the canopies out of the way.
To learn more about Crape Myrtles or any other trees, contact your ISA Certified Arborist for a visit.