How to Properly Trim Crape Myrtles in Ocala, Florida
Crape myrtles are a beloved staple in Florida landscapes, especially in Ocala. Known as the "lilac of the South," these tough, drought-tolerant trees or shrubs explode with vibrant summer blooms in shades of pink, red, purple, and white, lasting up to 100 days. They also offer attractive peeling bark, fall color, and year-round interest.
But one common mistake plagues many yards: "crape murder," the severe topping of branches that leaves ugly knobs and weak growth. Fortunately, with proper techniques, your crape myrtles can thrive naturally and beautifully.
When to Trim in Ocala
The best time to prune crape myrtles in Ocala is late winter, specifically mid to late February through early March. This is after the last hard freeze risk but before new growth starts. Pruning during dormancy lets you see the branch structure clearly, and since crape myrtles bloom on new wood, it won't reduce flowers, it may even encourage more.
Avoid pruning in fall or early winter, as it can stimulate tender growth vulnerable to cold snaps.
Why Prune Sparingly
Many experts, including the University of Florida IFAS Extension, emphasize that minimal pruning is best. Choose the right variety for your space (dwarf for small yards, taller ones like 'Natchez' or 'Muskogee' for larger areas), and you may rarely need to prune at all. Over pruning weakens the tree, invites pests/diseases like powdery mildew or crape myrtle bark scale, and creates those knobby, unnatural knobs.
Proper pruning maintains the tree's graceful vase shape, improves air circulation, and highlights the beautiful bark.
Step-by-Step Pruning Guide
Tools you'll need: Hand pruners for small twigs, loppers for medium branches, and a pruning saw for larger ones. Always cut at a slight angle just above a bud or branch collar.
Remove suckers and basal shoots → Cut water sprouts (suckers) growing from the base or roots flush with the ground. This keeps energy focused on the main trunks.
Prune dead, damaged, or diseased branches → Remove these anytime, but especially in late winter.
Eliminate crossing or rubbing branches → Cut the weaker one back to its origin to prevent wounds.
Thin out inward-growing branches → Open the center for light and air and aim for a structure where a bird could fly through.
Limb up for clearance (optional) → Remove lower branches for pedestrian/vehicle access or to expose the attractive trunks. Start gradually as the tree matures.
Tip prune lightly (optional) → Remove spent seed pods or twiggy growth (pencil-thick or thinner) from branch ends. This encourages bushier growth and more blooms but is labor-intensive.
Never top the tree by cutting main branches back to the same height. If your tree has been "murdered" in the past, you can rehabilitate it: Cut it nearly to the ground in late winter, then select 3-5 strong new shoots to form new trunks. It may take 3-5 years to recover fully.
Summer Blooms to Look Forward To
With proper care, your Ocala crape myrtles will reward you with stunning summer displays.
Final Tips for Ocala Gardeners
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil.
Water deeply but infrequently once established, they're drought tolerant.
Fertilize sparingly in spring if needed.
Choose mildew-resistant varieties like 'Natchez' (white), 'Sioux' (pink), or 'Dynamite' (red).
If you’re in the market for a new Crape Myrtle, call Bella Design Landscapes and we’d be happy to put together a plant design for your next landscape project!
