I read an article recently from a well respected local gardening identity that left me feeling a little apprehensive. In the article it was suggested that Crepe myrtles are remarkably drought resistant.
I would like to qualify this statement by adding, it depends on the type of soil the plants are growing in. I have several crepe myrtles that are flowering earlier than normal, but I am constantly putting additional water on them to stop them wilting. I believe they do not have a strong root system and are mostly shallow rooted when they growing on top of heavily compacted soils.
If you plant these small trees or shrubs depending on how they are treated please make sure you prepare the soil properly. Ripping the soil, "double digging" and applying additional compost is a must. They are well worth the effort and will provide extremely beautiful flowers and have extra stunning bark to show off against Australian eucalypts. Some cultivars even have wonderful autumn colours.
Make sure you take advice from articles with a little bit of a sceptical view and concentrate on what will work in your garden. This can be achieved by knowing what sort of soil and drainage exists in your garden to help select the right plants.
If you have any comments please contact Chris
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