Finally a video that shows exactly how to prune my black diamond crepe. I planted 2 last fall and they are beautiful. But the flowers hang after a hard rain. Now I know how to prevent that. Very informative!!
WOW watched and researched a ton and this was the best and most informative video. I looked everywhere for someone to tell me that crapes can be kept bush like and couldn't find any vids on it. Every vid I found would say that topping off the crape is the BIGGEST no no. I am now in love with this guy and his knowledge and this great vid.
Thank you for this video. We moved into our house a year ago and there are two crape myrtles planted by the previous owner. I don't think they've ever been pruned and after all we've had to do around here I'm just now getting around to them. I'm excited to see how they'll do after a good pruning!
Thank you so much for your black Diamond videos. I bought some crape black Diamond myrtles on sale to give our large side yard some shade and it’s hard finding much about black Diamond. I got me two lunar magics and trimmed them down to a single trunk. They look so good and are taking off!
I now have 9 Black diamonds that i planted this year and last. this video is exactly what is was looking for. i have 7 that i want large shrub and 2 that i want tree form. now i know how to do it and when!!
Thank you for these clear, versatile & simple directions! I just bought one of y'all's Amythist Kings; not realizing how big it's supposed to grow. 😅 These directions are most helpful & encouraging, that I can keep the Crape Myrtle & maintain it in a healthy way. Shalom & Blessings 🌸
This is an extremely informative video info. Thanks. I have many crapes. But have a different home that I am starting to add crepes to. I see a lot of Black Diamond craps at Lowes. But I can not figure out why I would buy Black Diamond over the long-term tested varieties. I want to buy for the overall look, not just dark leaves. No where can I find pictures of mature Black Diamond Crapes.
Well since Black Diamonds are a fairly new variety, you WOULD be very hard pressed to find fully mature specimens, as there are none. No one seems to have a problem buying that brand new variety of automobile, instead of the time tested ones. This is no different. Have faith and give it a go. What's there to loose?
@@kenbred46 I lost my crepe Myrtle a few yrs ago during the first freeze of winter. I still purchased another one the other day. I do get the points made above but there isn’t too much to lose (besides time, gas and effort)since Lowes gives a 1 yr $ back guarantee. I’m hanging onto my receipt this time. My neighbors have crepe myrtles with black foliage. I’m thinking they’ve been around awhile because those trees are at least 10-15 yrs old. I purchased my first one several yrs ago. 🤔
I wonder if you can tell me something about the c m roots? Last year i planted a dwarf purple c m about 2 feet high temporary during the month of Aug here in NYC. A month or so ago, I hired a 'phony' landscaper, ( found out later ) to transplant into a sunnier exposure. Without my prescence, he yanked out the c m ( according to my neighbor ) and planted it. Its over a month, no sign of life, but I do see some green as I scratch a branch or so. ..so I suspect its going through shock and I have been watering it daily, until finally I decided to uproot it and check the roots, if it even had any. It had lots of roots, but i can't tell by looking at them if they are dead or not. They certainly not white. Is there a way to confirm those roots? BTW, its now the last week of May if that should make any difference.
Hi Jim, another question, I have a few (5) of my BD crape myrtle's along my driveway that is in partial shade in the morning till approx. 10 am, they are leaning toward the sunny part of the yard, even straighten one up but it's leaning again. Is there a reason this is happening? Is this normal? and what can I do to correct this if possible? again thank you.
Jim I'm going to go prune all the new branches from the base of my diamond crape myrtle trees, can I use the cuttings to grow more to put in pots on my patio? And how do I get the cuttings to grow?
Question: Is there a single trunk variety or can I tight up the branches to merge it or make it look like a single trunk tree? I'm trying to plant lots of them along my property line, but I want to keep under control to not go over my neighbor's. Thank you!
Hi Rodrigo-we are working on single trunk formats-but naturally Black Diamonds prefer to have multiple trunks. You should not be concerned with the Black Diamonds creeping into your neighbors property. They are not invasive and are easily maintained with pruning. Thank you so much for checking in with us!
I plantwd my Black Diamond CM a year ago. They are now about 3 to 4 get y'all. I want them to bed trees. At what age or size do I start pruning and training it?
If a Crape Myrtle freezes all the way back to the ground, and I trim off all of the damage, will it stay small or will it grow to its normal height(as in a Natchez Crape Myrtle, which can reach 40')?
Hi Jim, I have 12 Black Diamond Crape Myrtles Purple, magenta, and pink lining my driveway. They come with two (2) plants per pot when purchased, is it safe to separate the two? I would like to mix the colors. Thank you for you videos.
Hi there, it would be best to not separate the two. We are working on multiple Black Diamond varieties in one container-and calling them Double or Triple Diamonds-please be on the lookout for them this Spring.
I planted a 3 foot Black diamond White in my garden 4 years ago. It does bloom but the height growth rate seems to be stuck at 4 feet tall. It hasn't expanded more than an inch or two per year. What can I do to enhance vertical growth?
Hi Kent. I am sorry you aren't seeing the growth on your Pure White Crape Myrtle that you had expected. Let's start with some basic information. What growing zone are you in and what have your temps been? Is the tree in the ground or a container pot? Have you trimmed it back?
@@j.berrynursery Zone 8b in Central Louisiana. It is in the ground at the edge of a flower garden that gets composted cow manure each spring. Our temps have been no lower than 28 in winter, with hot muggy swamp weather in summer.😝 As for trimming we've only done light and removal of 1 or 2 suckers. Almost wonder if I should cut it to the ground and let it start over. Bought some bone meal spikes to try this year.
Hi Kent! I remember my grandfather cutting don crape myrtles to the ground and they came back thicker and taller every year. We live in East Texas (right across border from Shreveport)
Dear Sir, I purchased this plant last month from the Nursery and it's very small. And now from past few days, it's leaves are Drying and Burning (new leaves too) from the edges & corners. And the new leaves coming out are Green in color. They are still Green after few days (Not turning black). But when I purchased this plant from nursery, all leaves are black. I live in India and currently it's Spring (beginning of summer) here and temperature is around 34°C (93.2°F). Last month I used Vermicompost fertilizer. Sir, How should I solve the problem of Drying and Burning leaves from the edges & corners.
I would like to know the answer to this as well. We are currently having 105-110 degree days with the heat index. I just purchased another Black Diamond crepe Myrtle (last one died over winter in a part sun area) I’m trying to plant this one over the weekend in full sun as per the directions BUT the leaves are already burning up and drying even though I’ve watered it twice a day in the container during this crazy heat wave.
If your Black Diamond Crapemyrtle did not flower this year, there are several factors that could be contributing to this issue. Here are some suggestions to help encourage flowering in the future: Sunlight: Crapemyrtles thrive in full sun. Ensure that your plant is receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Lack of sufficient sunlight can inhibit flowering. Pruning: Over-pruning or incorrect pruning can lead to reduced or no flowering. Crapemyrtles typically bloom on new growth, so avoid heavy pruning in late summer or fall, as this can remove the potential flower buds for the next year. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and flowering. Fertilization: Proper fertilization can influence flowering. Too much nitrogen fertilizer can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Use a balanced fertilizer or one that is slightly higher in phosphorus to encourage flowering. Apply fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer. Watering: Ensure that your crapemyrtle is receiving adequate water, especially during dry spells. Consistent moisture is important, but avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot. Soil: Well-draining soil is essential for the health and flowering of crapemyrtles. If the soil is too compacted or waterlogged, it can affect the plant's ability to bloom. Consider amending the soil with organic matter to improve drainage. Maturity: Young crapemyrtle plants may take a few years to become well-established and reach flowering maturity. Be patient and give the plant time to establish its root system. Pest and Disease Control: Check for any signs of pests or diseases that could be affecting the health of your plant. Aphids, powdery mildew, and other issues can impact flowering. Treat any problems promptly. Climate: Crapemyrtles can be sensitive to colder temperatures, especially in cooler climate zones. Make sure your plant is in a suitable hardiness zone and consider protecting it from harsh winter conditions. If you address these factors and provide proper care, your Black Diamond Crapemyrtle should have a better chance of flowering in the future. Remember that it's not uncommon for plants to have occasional off-years, so be patient and continue to provide good care to encourage healthy growth and blooms.
Extremely helpful video showing the three different techniques for pruning these stunning plants!
Perfect, simple explanation on how to prune them to the shape and size you want! What beautiful plants they are! Thank you!
Finally a video that shows exactly how to prune my black diamond crepe. I planted 2 last fall and they are beautiful. But the flowers hang after a hard rain. Now I know how to prevent that. Very informative!!
Hello crystal, what kind of soil mix would you recommend for my pots, Im repotting some cuttings :)
@@joanneshepard5449 The best advice I can give you is to explore UA-cam. I know there are videos on there that will help.
@@crystal79jones thats what im doing xxxoooo
Jim I'm in love with this crepe myrtle
WOW watched and researched a ton and this was the best and most informative video. I looked everywhere for someone to tell me that crapes can be kept bush like and couldn't find any vids on it. Every vid I found would say that topping off the crape is the BIGGEST no no. I am now in love with this guy and his knowledge and this great vid.
Hi Jim, thank you for this video, much appreciated.
Thank you very much for the information how to prune and train crape myrtle. I'm excited for my Black Diamond Crimson red to be formed to a tree. ❤️
I have had these on my property in SWFL. Zone 10 since 2017. I have 5 different versions and they all are fantastic. They bloom from May - Nov/Dec.
Thank you for this video. We moved into our house a year ago and there are two crape myrtles planted by the previous owner. I don't think they've ever been pruned and after all we've had to do around here I'm just now getting around to them. I'm excited to see how they'll do after a good pruning!
you're welcome! They should be sprouting soon!
Great explanation, thank you
Thank you so much for your black Diamond videos. I bought some crape black Diamond myrtles on sale to give our large side yard some shade and it’s hard finding much about black Diamond. I got me two lunar magics and trimmed them down to a single trunk. They look so good and are taking off!
Thanks Jim! I just purchased one of the Black Diamonds and it is BEAUTIFUL!!
What site did you use?
@@youluvmystyle02 I found mine at a Lowe's a couple of days ago. It was a great find as I'm hearing people are buying it all.
Nice explanation..i love these plants..my fav Black diamond crapes..i am going to buy them
Thank you so much! This is very helpful. My husband gave me two Black Diamond Crape Myrtles, and I am in love with them!
We are so happy you love them as much as we do!
@@j.berrynursery I grow mine in pots, what kind of soil does it like :)
Thank you 🙏♥️
I now have 9 Black diamonds that i planted this year and last. this video is exactly what is was looking for. i have 7 that i want large shrub and 2 that i want tree form. now i know how to do it and when!!
Thank you for these clear, versatile & simple directions! I just bought one of y'all's Amythist Kings; not realizing how big it's supposed to grow. 😅 These directions are most helpful & encouraging, that I can keep the Crape Myrtle & maintain it in a healthy way.
Shalom & Blessings 🌸
We are very happy to help!! Happy gardening!
Good cuting
Thanks..🎉🎉🎉
This is an extremely informative video info. Thanks. I have many crapes. But have a different home that I am starting to add crepes to. I see a lot of Black Diamond craps at Lowes. But I can not figure out why I would buy Black Diamond over the long-term tested varieties. I want to buy for the overall look, not just dark leaves. No where can I find pictures of mature Black Diamond Crapes.
I was thinking the same thing
Well since Black Diamonds are a fairly new variety, you WOULD be very hard pressed to find fully mature specimens, as there are none. No one seems to have a problem buying that brand new variety of automobile, instead of the time tested ones. This is no different. Have faith and give it a go. What's there to loose?
@@kenbred46 I lost my crepe Myrtle a few yrs ago during the first freeze of winter. I still purchased another one the other day. I do get the points made above but there isn’t too much to lose (besides time, gas and effort)since Lowes gives a 1 yr $ back guarantee. I’m hanging onto my receipt this time. My neighbors have crepe myrtles with black foliage. I’m thinking they’ve been around awhile because those trees are at least 10-15 yrs old. I purchased my first one several yrs ago. 🤔
WE have hope.... stubby might make it! :-) I have a white version that my landscapers keep mowing over and I am trying not to kill the poor thing.
Can the Shell Pink variety to pruned to grow in a bush. Not a tree shape?
I live in central florida i have crepe myrtles wats the best fertilizer to use
Is it possible to braid crapemyrtles?
I wonder if you can tell me something about the c m roots? Last year i
planted a dwarf purple c m about 2 feet high temporary during the month
of Aug here in NYC. A month or so ago, I hired a 'phony' landscaper, (
found out later ) to transplant into a sunnier exposure. Without my
prescence, he yanked out the c m ( according to my neighbor ) and
planted it. Its over a month, no sign of life, but I do see some green
as I scratch a branch or so. ..so I suspect its going through shock and I
have been watering it daily, until finally I decided to uproot it and
check the roots, if it even had any. It had lots of roots, but i can't
tell by looking at them if they are dead or not. They certainly not
white. Is there a way to confirm those roots? BTW, its now the last
week of May if that should make any difference.
Hi Jim, another question, I have a few (5) of my BD crape myrtle's along my driveway that is in partial shade in the morning till approx. 10 am, they are leaning toward the sunny part of the yard, even straighten one up but it's leaning again. Is there a reason this is happening? Is this normal? and what can I do to correct this if possible? again thank you.
I just go two small ones maybe like 4ft tall can I prun small twigs coming off the sides even though its mid summer??
Jim I'm going to go prune all the new branches from the base of my diamond crape myrtle trees, can I use the cuttings to grow more to put in pots on my patio? And how do I get the cuttings to grow?
Anybody still wanting to know, yes you can. There are videos about how to, just search.
Question: Is there a single trunk variety or can I tight up the branches to merge it or make it look like a single trunk tree? I'm trying to plant lots of them along my property line, but I want to keep under control to not go over my neighbor's. Thank you!
Hi Rodrigo-we are working on single trunk formats-but naturally Black Diamonds prefer to have multiple trunks. You should not be concerned with the Black Diamonds creeping into your neighbors property. They are not invasive and are easily maintained with pruning. Thank you so much for checking in with us!
I plantwd my Black Diamond CM a year ago. They are now about 3 to 4 get y'all. I want them to bed trees. At what age or size do I start pruning and training it?
If a Crape Myrtle freezes all the way back to the ground, and I trim off all of the damage, will it stay small or will it grow to its normal height(as in a Natchez Crape Myrtle, which can reach 40')?
Hi Jim, I have 12 Black Diamond Crape Myrtles Purple, magenta, and pink lining my driveway. They come with two (2) plants per pot when purchased, is it safe to separate the two? I would like to mix the colors. Thank you for you videos.
Hi there, it would be best to not separate the two. We are working on multiple Black Diamond varieties in one container-and calling them Double or Triple Diamonds-please be on the lookout for them this Spring.
Can you let me know where to buy bare root plant? I live in zip code 75052. Thanks in advance!
yo quiero de esos ,pero no se donde conseguirlos,soy de México..
I’m truly living these black diamond CM.
How far from each other should I plant them for the tree form ones. What’s the recommended distance?
Ideally 3 to 5 feet or more!!!! Gorgeous trees!
Bruce Edwards thank you Sir!
I planted a 3 foot Black diamond White in my garden 4 years ago. It does bloom but the height growth rate seems to be stuck at 4 feet tall. It hasn't expanded more than an inch or two per year. What can I do to enhance vertical growth?
Hi Kent. I am sorry you aren't seeing the growth on your Pure White Crape Myrtle that you had expected. Let's start with some basic information. What growing zone are you in and what have your temps been? Is the tree in the ground or a container pot? Have you trimmed it back?
@@j.berrynursery Zone 8b in Central Louisiana. It is in the ground at the edge of a flower garden that gets composted cow manure each spring. Our temps have been no lower than 28 in winter, with hot muggy swamp weather in summer.😝 As for trimming we've only done light and removal of 1 or 2 suckers. Almost wonder if I should cut it to the ground and let it start over. Bought some bone meal spikes to try this year.
Hi Kent! I remember my grandfather cutting don crape myrtles to the ground and they came back thicker and taller every year. We live in East Texas (right across border from Shreveport)
@@j.berrynursery Going to try bone meal this year and a little extra care. If it doesn't improve, it's Crape murder for sure. Marshall?
Can the same prune methods be done on Purple Magic crape myrtle
Yes it can!!
Dear Sir, I purchased this plant last month from the Nursery and it's very small. And now from past few days, it's leaves are Drying and Burning (new leaves too) from the edges & corners. And the new leaves coming out are Green in color. They are still Green after few days (Not turning black). But when I purchased this plant from nursery, all leaves are black.
I live in India and currently it's Spring (beginning of summer) here and temperature is around 34°C (93.2°F). Last month I used Vermicompost fertilizer.
Sir, How should I solve the problem of Drying and Burning leaves from the edges & corners.
I would like to know the answer to this as well. We are currently having 105-110 degree days with the heat index. I just purchased another Black Diamond crepe Myrtle (last one died over winter in a part sun area) I’m trying to plant this one over the weekend in full sun as per the directions BUT the leaves are already burning up and drying even though I’ve watered it twice a day in the container during this crazy heat wave.
Wish they were cold hardy
Mine did not flower this year any suggestions?
If your Black Diamond Crapemyrtle did not flower this year, there are several factors that could be contributing to this issue. Here are some suggestions to help encourage flowering in the future:
Sunlight: Crapemyrtles thrive in full sun. Ensure that your plant is receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Lack of sufficient sunlight can inhibit flowering.
Pruning: Over-pruning or incorrect pruning can lead to reduced or no flowering. Crapemyrtles typically bloom on new growth, so avoid heavy pruning in late summer or fall, as this can remove the potential flower buds for the next year. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and flowering.
Fertilization: Proper fertilization can influence flowering. Too much nitrogen fertilizer can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Use a balanced fertilizer or one that is slightly higher in phosphorus to encourage flowering. Apply fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer.
Watering: Ensure that your crapemyrtle is receiving adequate water, especially during dry spells. Consistent moisture is important, but avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot.
Soil: Well-draining soil is essential for the health and flowering of crapemyrtles. If the soil is too compacted or waterlogged, it can affect the plant's ability to bloom. Consider amending the soil with organic matter to improve drainage.
Maturity: Young crapemyrtle plants may take a few years to become well-established and reach flowering maturity. Be patient and give the plant time to establish its root system.
Pest and Disease Control: Check for any signs of pests or diseases that could be affecting the health of your plant. Aphids, powdery mildew, and other issues can impact flowering. Treat any problems promptly.
Climate: Crapemyrtles can be sensitive to colder temperatures, especially in cooler climate zones. Make sure your plant is in a suitable hardiness zone and consider protecting it from harsh winter conditions.
If you address these factors and provide proper care, your Black Diamond Crapemyrtle should have a better chance of flowering in the future. Remember that it's not uncommon for plants to have occasional off-years, so be patient and continue to provide good care to encourage healthy growth and blooms.
Mine is still flowering in texas, planted in June
"heighth"