When does crape myrtle bloom?
As the most dazzling star in the summer courtyard, crape myrtle flowers conquer countless flower lovers with their hundreds of days of flowering and colorful flower shapes.
Crape myrtle trees not only endure heat and drought resistance, but also become the darling of gardening due to their "hundreds of days red" characteristics. Today, we will comprehensively interpret this "dancing" landscape tree from flowering rules to maintenance details. The best viewing period for crape myrtle flowers The natural flowering period of crape myrtle spans from July to October, and the peak flowering period is concentrated around the beginning of autumn. A single flower can bloom for about 7 days, while the flowering period of the entire plant can be as long as 120 days due to the continuous differentiation of flower buds. If warm areas are properly maintained, the spectacle of "seeing flowers in three seasons" can even be realized. Comparison of differences in flowering between north and south in the Yangtze River Basin usually blooms first in early July, while in the Yellow River Basin it will be delayed by 2-3 weeks. Due to the warm climate in the Guangdong and Guangxi regions, flowers can be seen in late June, while blooming in the northern alpine regions may be delayed until August. The four major factors that affect the flowering of crape myrtle trees determine the amount of flowers. The pruning art will be carried out during the alternate winter and spring, and 3-5 main branches will be retained. Cutting off residual flowers in time after blooming in summer can promote secondary flowering. Remember to keep the terminal buds of new branches, which will be the main flowering force in the coming year. Soil acid-base balance technique uses a ratio of red loam soil + legular soil + river sand of 5:3:2 to maintain the pH value of 5.5-6.5. Sulphur powder is mixed when loosening soil every spring, which can effectively regulate the alkaline soil in the north.
Temperature and light control method The optimal growth temperature for Lagerstroemia japonica is 18-35℃, and flower bud differentiation requires a continuous high temperature of>25℃. A full-sunshine environment can make the colors more beautiful, and it is particularly important to ensure 6 hours of direct light every day. From the carmine red "Chiwei" to the snowy blue "Cuiwei", different varieties perform color variations. "Silver Wei" with wrinkled petals like silk and "Red Rocket" with golden stamens, each variety blooms unique charm in midsummer.
By mastering the flowering rules and maintenance points, this "itch tree" can perform the miracle of blooming for 100 days year after year. Whether it is planted alone in the courtyard or on the road, crape myrtle expresses the enthusiasm and persistence of life with its brilliance that lasts for three months.