Crape Murder

Every year people all over the country commit what has been termed "Crape Murder"—the senseless act of topping their Crape Myrtles. Some people think topping helps create more blooms, others think it will keep the tree at a more adequate height. In reality, topping is actually a detriment to the tree!

Crape Myrtles are beautiful trees which can grow to be as small as a shrub or as large as 25 ft. tall. They have a unique smooth bark and naturally cover themselves with blooms throughout the summer. When a Crape Myrtle is topped it develops twisted knobs where the cut is made. The growth above the knobs is weakened with each successive topping, forming limbs that are whip-like and flimsy. To retain a certain height, a specific variety should be planted that will coincide with the desired height. To achieve spectacular blooms, plant in a sunny location and sit back!

For more information on topping visit the links listed below where leading arborists as well as state agencies throughout the United States give their opinions on "Crape Murder". Or call us directly at 512-386-5900 to discuss how Pearson Landscape can properly prune your Crape Myrtles and the rest of your landscape as well.