The crape myrtle, belonging to the Lythraceae family, is a deciduous tree known for its long flowering period, earning it the nickname "Hundred Days Red." Among its varieties, the "Lady crape myrtle" is a newly developed species in China. It features a compact stature, making it ideal for container gardening or ornamental flower beds. This variety has strong sprouting ability, is easy to prune, and can be shaped quickly. Its flowering season typically lasts from June to October.
Propagation of the Lady crape myrtle can be done through sowing or cuttings. Sowing allows for a large number of healthy and uniform seedlings. Seeds are usually collected at the end of
Autumn and sown in February or March of the following year. The seedbed should be covered with a thin film to maintain warmth and moisture. Once the true leaves appear, the film should be removed to avoid excessive humidity, which may lead to stem rot. If sunlight is too intense during the day, shading is recommended. After the cotyledons develop, a diluted solution of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (1500 times) can be sprayed every other month. It's important not to apply it too concentrated, as this could burn the tender leaves.
After about a month, the seedlings can be transplanted. For cuttings, the best time is between March and April when temperatures are mild and the shoots are well-nourished, increasing the chances of survival. One-year-old semi-woody branches are ideal, and they should have no lateral buds. Cuttings should be around 10 cm long. The cutting bed must be well-drained and not prone to waterlogging. After planting, misting should be done regularly, especially on hot days, and shade may be needed. Rooting usually takes about a month, with a survival rate of over 90%.
When transplanting seedlings, it’s important not to pull them up directly. Instead, loosen the soil gently to avoid damaging the roots, which can become brittle if handled roughly.
In terms of cultivation, the Lady crape myrtle prefers well-drained calcareous soil and can also be grown in pots. After planting, a light fertilizer application once a week is sufficient. During the growing season, organic fertilizers like cake fertilizer can be used sparingly, and chemical fertilizers should be avoided as much as possible. Once the plant matures, it's essential to pinch back the growing tips to encourage the development of lateral branches, resulting in a fuller appearance.
Between June and July, buds begin to form, but these can affect the growth of the young plant. Therefore, it's advisable to remove the buds promptly to allow the plant to focus on accumulating nutrients and promoting further growth. By the second year, the plant will not only look more robust but also produce a wide variety of colorful flowers, making it a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape.
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