Why do crepe myrtles need to be topped off and cut back to look so “naked”?
The ritual of chopping off the tops of crepe myrtle seems to be the thing to do. Many people believe that it is necessary to promote flowering; some prune because the plant is too huge for the space; others observe their neighbors doing severe pruning and just follow their lead. There are some instances in which heavy pruning maybe necessary, but light pruning is usually all that is necessary. The type and amount of pruning depends on the desired shape and size of the plant. Instead make cuts right below the green seedpods, removing only the very tips of the branches. Usually the limbs return to their normal upright position once the pods are gone. Many gardeners leave these round seed capsules on the trees mistakenly thinking they are flower buds. The seedpods are larger than the bloom buds and are also hard and woody. The removal of seedpods helps raise sagging limbs, but it also encourages more flowers. All the strength used to produce seeds can be directed toward flower production.
