How Fast Do Crepe Myrtle Trees Grow?

We have shared your guide on the crepe myrtle varieties and planting seasons for better results. But imagine you are getting old without seeing any of them grow. To get rid of such devastating incidents, it is mandatory to know how fast crepe myrtle grows. That’s what we are going to talk about in this blog. Once planted, you can encourage the growing factors according to the needs.

Now, big crepe myrtles are a sensation to garden and home lovers because crepe myrtles are popular ornamental trees known for their vivid summer blooms. These shrubby trees are stapled in many gardens and landscapes, particularly in warmer climates. Knowing the time may help you know how to grow crepe myrtle accurately for fast results. That’s where we come in!

How Fast Do Crepe Myrtles Grow in Your Garden?

Certain varieties of crepe myrtles can reach a height of 20-30 feet within 10-15 years under optimal conditions. The growth rate can vary depending on three factors: the variety, environmental conditions, and care they receive. Anyway, crepe myrtles grow about 1-2 feet per year on average. The larger tree forms can grow more quickly. 

Some specific varieties of dwarf and semi-dwarf crepe myrtles grow more slowly. But SouthernLiving listed the best large crepe myrtles, where we can find that large types of crepe myrtles also provide variable colors in many seasons. The behavior changes much more quickly, which is a good sign of their frequent growth.

Can You Make Crepe Myrtles Grow Faster?

Yes, you can influence the growth rate of crepe myrtles by providing ideal growing conditions and regular care. The effective growing factors are soil quality, water availability, sunlight, and nutrients as other quickly growing trees. If your water and soil levels are unmatched, you can use organic fertilizers to enrich the surface. 

How to Grow Crepe Myrtle Faster?

It is possible to grow the crepe myrtle faster, even if it is not a large species. There are some strategies to help you grow your variants. I am not saying that you can reverse the natural order of growth in this way; rather, you can decrease the waiting period by a little bit. What you have to do is optimal planting, regular watering, fertilization, and pruning crepe myrtle.

• Optimal Planting: Plant crepe myrtles in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Check whether they receive full sun for at least 6 hours a day.
• Regular Watering: Provide consistent moisture, especially during the first few years of growth. Avoid overwatering or logging, as it can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Use a balanced and slow-release fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer to provide essential nutrients.
• Pruning: Prune the trees in late winter or early spring to remove dead or weak branches, promoting healthy growth.

Besides, there are three options for you to choose before the plantation.

Option 1: Planting the Fastest-growing Crepe Myrtle

Select a fast-growing variety of crepe myrtle from the large species. Believe me, it is an excellent way to achieve quicker results. Some of the fastest-growing crepe myrtle varieties include:

• Natchez: Known for its rapid growth and stunning white blooms.
• Muskogee: Features lavender-pink flowers and can grow up to 3 feet per year.
• Tuscarora: Exhibits vibrant coral-pink blooms and vigorous growth.

If you plant a Muskogee, you could have a 20 to 30-foot crepe myrtle in 7 years, which is considered the blooming period for many people. You can check our guide on “why isn’t my crepe myrtle not blooming” to know further on this topic.

Option 2: Selecting the Crepe Myrtle Growing Zones

Crepe myrtles have the best performance in USDA hardiness zones 7-9. You can go forward to optimal growth by selecting the appropriate growing zone. In cooler climates, you can safely consider planting in a sheltered location or using cold-hardy varieties. Some cold, hardy varieties are pocomoke, Chickasaw, tonto, and cado.

Option 3: Growing Crepe Myrtle from Seed

Seeding can produce authentic regeneration of the crepe myrtles. It also requires less effort. You do not need to have expert gardener knowledge to plant seeds compared to plant cuttings. The following steps are needed to plant the seeds:

1. Seed Collection: Collect seeds from mature crepe myrtle pods in the fall season.
2. Seed Preparation: Clean and dry the seeds before planting with fresh water.
3. Planting: Sow the seeds in well-drained soil and keep them moist all the time.
4. Germination: Place the seeds in a hot and sunny location. Remember that germination can take several weeks to months.
5. Transplanting: Once seedlings are done, transplant them to their permanent location. In your garden

How to Grow a Crepe Myrtle from a Cutting Quickly?

Growing crepe myrtles from cuttings is an efficient method to propagate these trees. Follow these steps for successful propagation:

• Cutting Selection: Choose a healthy, semi-hardwood cutting about 6-8 inches long from the current year’s growth.
• Preparation: Remove the lower leaves and leave a few leaves at the top.
• Rooting Hormone: Pour the cut end in rooting hormone to increase root development.
• Planting: Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining rooting medium.
• Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist and cover the cutting with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
• Light: Place the jar in a bright, indirect light location.
• Root Development: Wait for the roots to be developed within 4-8 weeks.
• Transplanting: Once rooted, transplant the cutting to a larger pot or directly into the garden.

Conclusion

In the past, many people feared that the crepe myrtle was poisonous, but later, we found it completely safe for pets and humans. So the safety and beauty made it a popular choice for all homeowners. If you want it to grow faster and brighten your home exterior, your key concern must be proper planting, care, and maintenance. You can contact us for any guidance and consultation on this matter. 

FAQs

How Tall Do Crepe Myrtles Grow?

Crepe myrtles can vary in height depending on the varieties instead of the species. Dwarf varieties can grow up to 3-4 feet, but larger tree forms can reach heights of 20-30 feet or more. On average, you could have 3 to 4 feet growth per year from large and medium crepe myrtle.

How Big Does a Crepe Myrtle Grow?

In addition to height, crepe myrtles can spread 6-20 feet wide based on the variety and growing conditions. If you prune regularly, it becomes easier to manage their size and shape. This way, you can be confident that they will fit well in your landscape.

How much water is enough for crepe myrtle?

Crepe Myrtles can tolerate dry conditions with their survival instincts. watering is still a necessity. In the establishment period, you have to water it several times a week. Then you need to check the size and water on the shrubs for several months. Larger shrubs may require more watering.