Acoma crape myrtle is a beautiful, low-maintenance shrub that blooms profusely in summer. It’s perfect for foundation plantings, hedges, and mass plantings. With its glossy green leaves and showy flowers, it’s no wonder this plant is so popular! How to Grow and Care for Acoma Crape Myrtle
Here are a few tips on how to grow and care for your Acoma crape myrtle:
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How to Grow Acoma Crape Myrtle?
- Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Acoma crape myrtle will tolerate partial shade, but it won’t bloom as profusely.
- Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Once established, this plant is quite drought tolerant.
- Fertilize in spring with a slow-release shrub & tree food.
- Prune as needed to shape and control growth. Acoma crape myrtle can be pruned quite severely without harming the plant.
- With just a little care, your Acoma crape myrtle will thrive and provide you with years of enjoyment!
Acoma Crape Myrtle Care
The Acoma crape myrtle is a beautiful shrub or small tree to grow, since it generates drooping branches with lush foliage and delicate blooms. While this type requires lots of light, it succeeds in a range of soil conditions and has minimal water or fertilizer needs. If you live in a hot climate, the Acoma crape myrtle is an ideal plant to have in your landscaping.
Pick a planting site that has well-drained soil and full sun exposure. If your region experiences high heat or humidity, some afternoon shade will be beneficial. The Acoma crape myrtle can tolerate a range of soils, including clay and sand.
Amend the planting site with compost if the native soil is heavy clay or Sandy. Work the organic matter into the top 12 inches of soil using a spade prior to planting the Acoma crape myrtle.
Space multiple plants 5 to 6 feet apart when creating a hedge or mass planting. If you’re growing a single specimen, allow for 8 to 10 feet of space from other shrubs or trees.
Dig a hole that’s twice as wide as the Acoma crape myrtle’s root ball and of similar depth. Gently remove the plant from its container without disturbing the roots too much.
Set the Acoma crape myrtle in the planting hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Backfill the hole halfway, and then water deeply to settle the roots. Finish filling in the hole and mulch around the base of the plant to help control weeds.
Water regularly during the first year after planting to help the Acoma crape myrtle become established. Once it’s growing well, you can reduce watering to once per week during periods of no rainfall.
Fertilize in early spring using a balanced fertilizer formulated for trees and shrubs. Apply according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and then water deeply to distribute the nutrients throughout the root zone.
Prune as needed to shape the plant or control its size. The Acoma crape myrtle blooms on new growth, so don’t be afraid to prune it back hard in late winter or early spring.
With proper care, your Acoma crape myrtle will thrive and provide you with many years of enjoyment. These versatile shrubs or small trees make an excellent addition to any landscape!
Acoma Crape Myrtle Varieties
There are many different varieties of Acoma crape myrtle, so you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for your landscape. Here are a few of the most popular varieties:
‘Biloxi’ – This variety is a dwarf Acoma crape myrtle, growing only 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. It has deep pink flowers and glossy green leaves.
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‘Dazzleberry’ – As its name suggests, ‘Dazzleberry’ is covered in stunning purple-pink flowers in summer. It grows 6 to 8 feet tall and wide.
‘Tuscarora’ – ‘Tuscarora’ is a fast-growing variety that can reach 15 feet tall and 12 feet wide. It has deep pink flowers and dark green leaves.
With so many different varieties to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect Acoma crape myrtle for your landscape!
FAQS
Q: What are the blooming requirements for an Acoma crape myrtle?
A: The Acoma crape myrtle blooms on new growth, so it’s best to prune it back hard in late winter or early spring. This will encourage lots of new growth and an abundance of flowers!
Q: How do I care for an Acoma crape myrtle in winter?
A: Winter care for the Acoma crape myrtle is minimal. Just make sure to prune it back in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and lots of flowers.
Q: What are the watering requirements for an Acoma crape myrtle?
A: Water regularly during the first year after planting to help the Acoma crape myrtle become established. Once it’s growing well, you can reduce watering to once per week during periods of no rainfall.
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