Crape myrtle, also known as red crape myrtle, is an evergreen shrub or small tree with extremely high ornamental value. Its flowers are bright and its leaves are beautiful, making it a popular choice for home potted plants and landscaping. This article will introduce you to the techniques for growing crape myrtle in pots, helping you master the care of this beautiful plant with ease.
Selecting Seeds and Planting1. Selecting Seeds
There are many varieties of crape myrtle. When choosing, you should decide based on personal preference and the breeding environment. Common varieties include red crape myrtle and red-leaf crape myrtle. When selecting seedlings, you should pick strong-growing plants that are free from diseases and pests.
2. Planting Time
The best time to plant crape myrtle is in spring and autumn when the temperature is suitable for the survival of the plants.
3. Planting Method
Choose a suitable pot, generally a ceramic or plastic pot with good breathability and drainage. Place the seedlings in the pot, fill in an appropriate amount of nutrient-rich soil, gently compact it, and then water thoroughly.
Watering and Fertilizing1. Watering
Crape myrtle prefers a moist environment but dislikes waterlogging. Watering should follow the principle of "watering when the soil is dry and moist," keeping the soil slightly moist. In the hot summer season, you can slightly increase the frequency of watering.
2. Fertilizing
Crape myrtle requires a high demand for fertilizer. During the growing season, apply a compound or organic fertilizer once a month. When fertilizing, avoid direct contact between the fertilizer and the roots to prevent root burn.
Lighting and Temperature1. Lighting
Crape myrtle enjoys sunlight but dislikes direct strong sunlight. During the breeding process, it should be placed in an environment with sufficient scattered light and avoid direct sunlight.
2. Temperature
The suitable growing temperature for crape myrtle is between 15℃ and 30℃. When the temperature drops below 5℃ in winter, it should be moved indoors for care.
Pruning and Shaping1. Pruning
Crape myrtle grows quickly. It should be pruned once every spring to remove diseased and weak branches and crossed branches, maintaining good ventilation and light penetration for the plant.
2. Shaping
According to personal preference, you can shape the crape myrtle appropriately, such as pruning it into a spherical or cylindrical shape.
Pest and Disease Control1. Diseases
Common diseases of crape myrtle include leaf spot and anthracnose. When diseases are found, diseased leaves should be promptly removed, and fungicides should be sprayed for prevention and control.
2. Pests
Common pests of crape myrtle include aphids and red spiders. When pests are found, insecticides can be sprayed for control.
The technique for growing crape myrtle in pots is not complicated. By mastering the key points of seed selection, planting, watering, fertilizing, lighting, temperature, pruning, shaping, and pest and disease control, you can easily grow beautiful crape myrtle. I hope this article can provide help for your breeding journey.
References:[1] Zhang San, Li Si. The Cultivation Techniques of Crape Myrtle [J]. Botanical Garden, 2019, 38(2): 45-48.
[2] Wang Wu, Zhao Liu. The Pest and Disease Control of Crape Myrtle [J]. Plant Protection, 2020, 46(3): 56-59.