Lagerstroemia

Growing Temperature:

68-74°F

Soil PH:

5.5-6.0

EC (What is EC?):

2.0-3.0 pour through method

Fertility:

Lagerstroemia are moderate feeders. Use 100-125 ppm Nitrogen via constant liquid feed at every watering or incorporate slow release fertilizer at a rate of 1.0-1.5 lbs. per cubic yard of growing media.

Vernalization:

Not required.

Pests & Diseases:

The diseases which typically affect Lagerstroemia include powdery mildew and root rot. Scout regularly for aphids and white flies.

Potting & Timing:

Due to their southern heritage, Crapemyrtles are a heat loving plant and will put on the most growth in the heat of summer. Starting from a 30ct plug, plant in spring or summer in a 2-Gal pot and you can expect a finished container in 12-14 weeks. Use a well-drained media of bark, perlite and peat with a pH of 5.5-6.0 in a container or 5.0-6.5 in the ground.

Moisture:

For potting soil use well-drained media of bark, perlite, and peat.
Lagerstroemia is very drought tolerant in the landscape and do not require a lot of water. After initial planting, be sure to give the plants a thorough drench.

Planting Level:

Plant crown even with soil line.

PGRs/Pinching:

These plants tend to be compact in the northern growing regions. No need for PGRs.
A soft pinch 2 weeks after transplant helps increase lateral branching.

Lighting:

Lagerstroemia is a sun-loving plant. Grow this crop under clear plastic indoors with high light levels or in direct sunlight outdoors. If they are not grown under proper lighting conditions, the plants may become leggy and sparse and will not flower as well.

Other Comments:

Lagerstroemia grow very large in production. It is critical to space them well to grow well-rounded, uniform finished plants. Good spacing also allows for better airflow, preventing foliar diseases.