When To Plant Crepe Myrtles In Texas

If you’re wondering when to plant crepe myrtles in Texas, timing is your first step to success. Getting this right sets your tree up for a lifetime of vibrant blooms and healthy growth in the Texas heat.

This guide cuts straight to the chase. We’ll cover the best planting windows, why they matter, and how to give your crepe myrtle the perfect start. Let’s get your hands dirty.

The optimal planting season for crepe myrtles across Texas is late winter to early spring. Aim for February through April.

This timing is crucial. Planting during this window allows the tree to establish its root system before the intense summer heat arrives. The soil is warming up, which encourages root growth, but the air is still mild, reducing stress on the young plant.

Fall is a secondary option, particularly in October and early November. This works well in milder parts of the state, giving the tree a few months of cool growth before winter dormancy.

Why Planting Time Matters So Much

Planting at the wrong time can set your tree back significantly. Here’s what happens if you miss the ideal window:

Summer Planting: High heat and drought stress a young tree. It will struggle to establish roots while trying to support top growth, often leading to scorch or failure.
Winter Planting: Frozen ground is a problem in North Texas. Dormant roots can’t grow in cold soil, and a hard freeze can damage the plant before it gets started.
Spring Advantage: The tree wakes up from dormancy in its new location. It directs energy to root establishment first, making it stronger and more resilient for its first summer.

Regional Texas Planting Calendars

Texas has diverse climates. Here’s a quick regional breakdown:

North Texas (Dallas, Fort Worth)

Plant from mid-March to mid-April. Wait until the last hard freeze threat has passed. Fall planting can be risky due to earlier frosts.

Central Texas (Austin, San Antonio)

Plant from late February through March. This region has a longer growing season, so you have a bit more flexibility in early spring.

South Texas & Gulf Coast (Houston, Corpus Christi)

Plant from February into early April. The mild winters also make fall planting (October) a very reliable option here.

Humidity is high, so ensure excellent air circulation around your tree to prevent fungal issues later on.

West Texas & Panhandle

Plant in April after frost danger is completely over. The dry air and wind are big challenges. Fall is generally not recommended due to harsh, early winters.

Step-by-Step Planting Guide

Once you’ve got your timing right, follow these steps for perfect planting.

Choose the Right Location: Crepe myrtles need full sun—at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily. They also prefer well-drained soil.
Dig the Hole: Make it twice as wide as the root ball, but only as deep as the root ball itself. Planting too deep is a common mistake that can cause rot.
Handle the Root Ball: Gently loosen any circling roots. If the tree is pot-bound, make a few shallow cuts down the sides of the root mass to encourage outward growth.
Position and Backfill: Place the tree in the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with or slightly above the ground. Backfill with the native soil you removed, gently tamping it down to remove air pockets.
Water Deeply: Create a small berm of soil around the edge to form a water basin. Soak the area thoroughly to settle the soil and ensure root contact.
Mulch: Apply 2-3 inches of mulch (like pine bark or shredded hardwood) around the base. Keep it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup against the bark.

Immediate Aftercare for Your New Tree

The first few months are critical. Your care routine should focus on consistent moisture and protection.

Watering: Water deeply 2-3 times per week for the first month. Then, gradually extend the time between waterings to encourage deep root growth. The goal is to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Staking: Usually not necessary. Crepe myrtles establish better and develop stronger trunks if they are not staked. Only stake if the tree is in a very windy location and is unstable.
Fertilizing: Hold off! Do not fertilize at planting time. Wait until you see new growth, then apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. To much nitrogen early on can harm tender roots.
Pruning: Avoid heavy pruning at planting. Only remove any broken or damaged branches. Structural pruning can wait until the following winter when the tree is dormant.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced gardeners can make a few errors. Here’s what to watch out for:

Overwatering: Soggy soil suffocates roots. Check soil moisture with your finger before watering.
“Crepe Murder”: This is the severe, improper topping of trees. It ruins their natural shape and leads to weak, knobby growth. Prune correctly in late winter by thinning branches and removing suckers.
Wrong Variety Size: Choose a cultivar that fits your space at maturity. A ‘Natchez’ (large) will overwhelm a small courtyard, while a dwarf variety will look out of place in a large yard.
Crowding: Plant them far enough apart and away from structures. Good air circulation prevents mildew and other diseases.

FAQs: Your Crepe Myrtle Questions Answered

Can I plant crepe myrtles in the summer in Texas?

It’s not recommended. The extreme heat and potential for drought put immense stress on a newly planted tree. Survival rates drop, and the plant will require constant, careful watering. If you must, provide ample shade and water, but spring is far better.

Is fall planting a good idea for crepe myrtles?

In milder regions like South and Central Texas, fall (October) can work well. The soil is still warm for root growth, and cooler air reduces top-growth stress. Ensure the tree gets consistent water through its first winter. In North Texas, spring is safer due to unpredictable freezes.

How often should I water a newly planted crepe myrtle?

For the first few weeks, water deeply every 2-3 days, depending on rainfall and heat. After a month, shift to once a week for the rest of the first growing season. The key is deep, infrequent watering to train the roots to grow downward.

What is the best crepe myrtle variety for Texas?

Disease-resistant varieties with proven heat tolerance are best. Look for the Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei hybrids like ‘Natchez’ (white), ‘Muskogee’ (lavender), ‘Tuscarora’ (coral pink), and ‘Dynamite’ (true red). They are resistant to powdery mildew, a common issue.

Do crepe myrtles need special soil?

They are adaptable but thrive in well-drained soil. If you have heavy clay, amend the planting area broadly with compost to improve drainage. They prefer a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.

Setting Up for Long-Term Success

Your job isn’t done after the first season. Long-term care ensures a stunning, resilient tree.

Prune in late winter while the tree is dormant. Remove crossing branches, suckers from the base, and thin the center for air flow. Fertilize in early spring as new growth appears. A layer of fresh mulch each spring helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Watch for pests like aphids, which are usually handled by natural predators. Treat any fungal issues like powdery mildew with a targeted fungicide and by improving air circulation around the tree.

Choosing the right time to plant your crepe myrtle is the most important decision you’ll make. A tree planted in late winter gets a gentle start, building strength for a spectacular summer show. With this guide, you have the knowledge to plant with confidence and enjoy these beautiful, resilient trees for many years to come.