The crape myrtle, belonging to the Lythraceae family, is a deciduous tree known for its long blooming period, earning it the nickname "Hundred Days Red." Among its varieties, the "Lady crape myrtle" is a newer cultivar developed in China in recent years. This compact variety is ideal for container gardening or as part of ornamental flower beds. It has strong regenerative abilities, responds well to pruning, and can be shaped quickly. Its flowering season typically lasts from June to October.
Propagation methods include both sowing and cuttings. Sowing allows for the production of numerous 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 layer of plastic to maintain warmth and moisture. Once the true leaves appear, the covering should be removed to avoid excessive humidity, which could lead to stem rot. If sunlight is too intense during the day, shade nets should be used. After the cotyledons emerge, a diluted solution of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (1500 times dilution) can be sprayed every other month to support growth. Avoid over-application to prevent leaf burn.
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 rich in nutrients. Use one-year-old semi-woody stems, selecting those without lateral buds. Cut each branch to about 10 cm in length. The cutting bed should be well-drained and not prone to waterlogging. Watering should be done regularly during the day, and shading may be needed if temperatures rise. Rooting generally takes around a month, with a survival rate of over 90%.
When transplanting, avoid pulling up the seedlings directly. Instead, gently loosen the soil to prevent root damage. For planting, crape myrtles thrive in well-drained calcareous soils or in pots. After planting, apply a diluted fertilizer once a week. During the growing season, organic fertilizers like cake manure are preferred, while chemical fertilizers should be used sparingly. As the plant matures, timely pinching of the central shoot encourages the growth of lateral branches, resulting in a more bushy appearance.
Buds usually appear in June or July, but they can affect the plant's growth. To ensure strong development, buds should be removed promptly to redirect energy toward new growth. By the second year, the plant will not only look full and vibrant but also produce a wide range of colorful flowers. With proper care, the crape myrtle becomes a beautiful and long-lasting addition to any garden or landscape.
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