Learn how to prune crepe myrtles the right way. This hands-on workshop is designed to help gardeners of all experience levels understand the techniques and timing that keep these beloved Southern trees healthy, beautiful, and blooming at their best. Led by our horticulture team, this session combines classroom instruction with a guided walk through the Garden to see examples of proper pruning up close.
Benefits/Learning Outcomes:
- Identify proper pruning techniques.
- Participants will be able to distinguish correct pruning practices from harmful methods (such as “crape murder”) and explain why proper technique supports tree health and aesthetics.
- Participants will be able to distinguish correct pruning practices from harmful methods (such as “crape murder”) and explain why proper technique supports tree health and aesthetics.
- Determine the optimal timing for pruning.
- Participants will understand seasonal growth patterns and be able to select the best time of year to prune crape myrtles for vigorous flowering and long-term structure.
- Participants will understand seasonal growth patterns and be able to select the best time of year to prune crape myrtles for vigorous flowering and long-term structure.
- Apply step-by-step pruning procedures.
- Participants will practice and confidently perform essential cuts—removing suckers, crossing branches, seed heads, and weak growth—while preserving the tree’s natural form.
- Participants will practice and confidently perform essential cuts—removing suckers, crossing branches, seed heads, and weak growth—while preserving the tree’s natural form.
- Diagnose common pruning mistakes and prevent them.
- Participants will learn to recognize symptoms of over-pruning or improper cuts and implement strategies to avoid issues such as knuckling, reduced blooming, or disease risk.
Fee:
$17, $5 for members.
Limited Availability: Please Preregister at: https://shop.capefearbg.org/SelectEvent.aspx?eventID=1000116
Presenter: Chad Shelby has been studying Horticulture since 2018. He completed his A.A.S. in Horticulture and is currently pursuing his B.S. in Agriculture Education. He has been the project manager for several pro bono projects, specifically ones that involve Non-Profits like the C.A.R.E Clinic and St. John’s Episcopal Church. His work includes The Staff Garden at the C.A.R.E. Clinic, Community Patriot Arts Connection Veteran’s Garden, and building the Daylily Garden at Cape Fear Botanical Garden.
