Introduction
Crepe myrtle is a popular flowering shrub in many parts of the world. Its colorful blooms add beauty to any garden and its ability to survive tough conditions makes it a great choice for landscaping. While propagating crepe myrtle from seeds can be tricky, it’s not impossible with some patience and careful attention. This blog post will provide you with all the steps you need to successfully propagate your own crepe myrtle from seed.
Collecting Crepe Myrtle Seeds
The first step in propagating crepe myrtle from seed is collecting the seeds. The best time to do this is when the flowers are at their peak bloom – usually around mid-summer or early fall depending on your location. To collect them, wait until after they’ve dried up then gently shake off the seeds into a bowl or paper bag, taking care not to lose them as they’re quite small and light weight.
Planting Crepe Myrtle Seeds
Once you’ve collected the seeds, it’s time to plant them in an appropriate environment so that they may grow into healthy plants. Fill small pots or trays with well-draining potting mix, then sprinkle on a few crepe myrtle seeds per pot/tray (no more than three). Cover lightly with soil then water thoroughly until moist but not soggy. Place these containers outside in direct sunlight if possible; otherwise keep indoors under bright lighting such as fluorescent bulbs or LED lights on an 18 hour cycle each day for 8 weeks minimum before transplanting outdoors later when temperatures are warm enough for growth (typically late spring).
Caring For Your Crepes Myrtsle Seedlings
Once sprouted, your tiny plants will need regular maintenance including watering daily while avoiding overwatering which can cause root rot – always let soil dry out between waterings! Fertilizing once every month during active growth season (usually April through October) should also be done using general purpose fertilizer such as 10-10-10 blend made specifically for trees and bushes sold at most nurseries or home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s – use according to package instructions based on size of container being used (do NOT over fertilize!). Lastly make sure that weeds don’t take over by pulling them by hand regularly throughout summer months so that young plants have adequate space & nutrients available without competition from unwanted vegetation near base roots which could potentially stunt progress due lack of resources needed which would ultimately lead unhealthy stunted development overall leading possibly even death down road further along line if left unchecked unchecked..
Transplanting Outdoors Once temperatures consistently reach above 65 degrees Fahrenheit during daytime hours shortly after last frost date has passed typically sometime between late April May June depending upon precise climate zone being dealt within particular area , move young Crepes Myrtles outdoors very carefully process part means transferring individual ones separate containers larger holes dug beforehand full sun exposure neccesary order ensure proper healthy balanced growth long term success . Aftercare much same mentioned prior section : Water daily allow soils dry out between sessions avoid wet feet issue rotting issues ; Fertilize monthly starting mid spring going thru late summer beginning autumnal equinox finally arrive end September Octorber when leaves start changing colors kiss goodbye goodbye short days slowly reclaim territory daylight reigns supreme yet again following winter solstice coming December 21st mark celebration Yule traditions ancient Norse culture bring back life joyous cheerful festive spirit midst darkest times year far north northern hemispheres
< h 2 >Conclusion Propagating crete myrtles from seed may require some patience , but if done correctly , results can be rewarding ! With just little bit preparation work combined knowledge gained reading article here today , now have knowhow skills necessary begin journey own personal propagation project own home very soon . Good luck hope enjoy way !
