Ruby Prince™ Emerald Empire® Crape Myrtle Tree

Planting & Care

Planting: Plant in an area with well-drained soil and full sunlight (between 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily).

Once you’ve found your planting area, dig the hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Comb your hands over the root ball to free up the roots a bit before planting. Place your tree in the hole and make sure that the root crown (where the root ball meets the trunk of the tree) is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole and water to settle the tree's roots. Finally, mulch the area around the tree to conserve moisture.

Watering: Though they are drought tolerant once established, you may have to water young trees more often, especially in the summer heat. Simply check the surrounding 3 inches of soil for dryness and water when this area is dry, if you're unsure when to water, however.

Fertilizing: In the early spring and summer seasons, your Crape will greatly benefit from a light application of a complete, balanced, slow-release fertilizer formula.

Pruning: For a more graceful hedge shape, remove all but 4 to 5 strong trunks and then remove the lateral branches around the lower half of the tree. Remove any damaged or crossing branches in late winter. Clip away any suckers, or low-growing branches, throughout the year.