LSU AgCenter horticulturist Kerry Heafner demonstrates how to properly prune a crape myrtle. | LSU AgCenter

HOW TO PRUNE A CRAPE MYRTLE! In this video, MSU Extension horticulture specialist Dr. Jeff Wilson shows you the correct way to prune crape myrtle trees! Learn more: http://ow.ly/rhYv30inZhP #MSUext | Mississippi State University Extension Service

In our last video, a lot of you let us know you wanted to actually see how to prune a crape myrtle the right way. Today we’re doing exactly that. Proper pruning makes a huge difference in the shape, health, and blooms of your tree, so we’re walking through what good pruning really looks like. Watch along to see how it should be done. 🌸🪴 #smithsgardentown #crapemyrtle #pruning #northtexasgardening | Smith's Gardentown

Tanner The Planter This pesky pest can cause black sooty mold and weaken the tree. If you can treat it early it will keep you crape myrtle thriving! #smithsgardentown #gardentips #crapemyrtle #pestcontrol #crapemyrtlebarkscale | Smith's Gardentown

The primary pest of crape myrtles in our area is crape myrtle bark scale (CMBS). These insects suck the sap from branches and trunks, and then excrete a sugary substance called honeydew on which black sooty mold grows. One of the main predators of CMBS is the twice stabbed lady beetle apply named for the two red spots on its black body. Both the adults and the larva feed on CMBS. | GardenLine