Can You Grow Crepe Myrtles From Clippings?

Crepe myrtle is a deciduous tree that grows to 20 feet by maturity. The tree produces white, red and pink flowers and deep green foliage. If you live in USDA hardiness zones 7 through 10, you can propagate crepe myrtles from the cuttings of original trees.

Propagating

When propagating cuttings from a crepe myrtle, it is best to do so during its growing season between June and August. Take the cuttings from the new growth, leaving behind three to four nodes per cutting. North Dakota State University Extension horticulturist Ron Smith recommends dipping the cuttings in a rooting hormone powder.

Replanting

Plant the cuttings in a well-drained soil situated in a shady area and place a plastic bag over each cutting to keep it moist. Place them at least 6 inches apart with half their length in the soil. Their roots should take hold within four to five weeks. Transplant the cuttings to their permanent home in the fall or winter.

Pruning

Following the transplant, prune crepe myrtles in late January or February. If you want a tree form, only prune the suckers and seed heads and cut the branches to pencil size. If you want a shrub, cut away the largest limbs to allow the suckers to maintain a shrub appearance.

References

• North Dakota State University Extension: Questions on Crepe Myrtle
• The University of Georgia: Crape Myrtle Culture
• Texas A&M University: Shrubs