What to Plant Around Crepe Myrtles (A Guide to Beautiful and Low-Maintenance Combinations)

What to Plant Around Crepe Myrtles

Crepe myrtles are a popular choice for landscaping because they’re beautiful, low-maintenance, and adaptable to a wide range of conditions. But what should you plant around them?

In this article, we’ll discuss the best plants to pair with crepe myrtles, based on factors such as complementary colors, growth habits, and water needs. We’ll also provide tips on how to plant and care for these companion plants, so you can create a beautiful and sustainable landscape.

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Plant	Benefits	Notes
Daylilies	Attract butterflies and pollinators	Drought-tolerant and deer-resistant
Azaleas	Provide shade and structure	Fertile, well-drained soil
Hostas	Add color and texture to the landscape	Tolerate a wide range of conditions
Clematis	Climb up the crepe myrtles and provide flowers	Full sun and well-drained soil

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Crepe myrtles (Lagerstroemia indica) are a popular choice for landscaping because they are beautiful, low-maintenance trees that can thrive in a variety of conditions. However, when planting crepe myrtles, it is important to consider the surrounding plants. Some plants will complement the crepe myrtles, while others will compete for resources and eventually damage the trees.

This guide will discuss the factors to consider when choosing plants for crepe myrtles, as well as some specific plants that work well with these trees.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Plants for Crepe Myrtles

When choosing plants for crepe myrtles, there are a few factors to keep in mind.

• Plant size and growth rate: Crepe myrtles can grow to be quite large, so it is important to choose plants that will not be overshadowed by the trees. Additionally, it is important to consider the growth rate of the plants. If you want the plants to be the same size as the crepe myrtles, you will need to choose plants that grow at a similar rate.
• Sunlight requirements: Crepe myrtles need full sun to thrive. Therefore, it is important to choose plants that also require full sun.
• Soil conditions: Crepe myrtles do best in well-drained soil. If you have heavy clay soil, you may need to amend the soil with sand or compost to improve drainage.
• Water needs: Crepe myrtles are drought-tolerant trees, but they do need regular watering during dry periods. If you live in an area with hot, dry summers, you will need to water the crepe myrtles more frequently.
• Maintenance requirements: Crepe myrtles are relatively low-maintenance trees, but they do require some pruning to keep them healthy and looking their best. You will need to prune the crepe myrtles in the spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the trees.

Plants That Work Well with Crepe Myrtles

There are many different plants that work well with crepe myrtles. Some of the best options include:

• Perennials: Perennials are plants that come back year after year. Some good options for perennials to plant with crepe myrtles include azaleas, daylilies, hostas, and roses.
• Shrubs: Shrubs are woody plants that typically grow to be shorter than trees. Some good options for shrubs to plant with crepe myrtles include hydrangeas, lilacs, and viburnums.
• Groundcovers: Groundcovers are plants that spread out and cover the ground. Some good options for groundcovers to plant with crepe myrtles include creeping phlox, lamium, and pachysandra.
• Vines: Vines are plants that climb up other plants or structures. Some good options for vines to plant with crepe myrtles include clematis, honeysuckle, and wisteria.

By considering the factors listed above, you can choose plants that will complement the crepe myrtles in your landscape. With a little planning, you can create a beautiful and harmonious garden that will last for years to come.

Additional Resources

• [The Spruce: Crepe Myrtles: The Ultimate Guide](https://www.thespruce.com/crepe-myrtles-the-ultimate-guide-5114171)
• [Gardening Know How: Crepe Myrtles: Plants That Grow Well Together](https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/crepe-myrtle/crepe-myrtles-plants-that-grow-well-together.htm)
• [Plants.com: Plants That Grow Well with Crepe Myrtles](https://www.plants.com/plants-that-grow-well-with-crepe-myrtles/)

What to Plant Around Crepe Myrtles?

Crepe myrtles (Lagerstroemia indica) are beautiful, flowering trees that can add a touch of color and interest to any landscape. They are relatively easy to care for, but they do best when planted in full sun and well-drained soil. If you’re looking for some ideas for plants to pair with crepe myrtles, here are a few suggestions:

• Perennials: Perennials are a great option for planting around crepe myrtles because they come back year after year and provide continuous color and interest. Some good choices for perennials to plant with crepe myrtles include:
• Daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.)
• Hostas (Hosta spp.)
• Iris (Iris spp.)
• Peonies (Paeonia spp.)
• Roses (Rosa spp.)
• Annuals: Annuals are a great option for adding a pop of color to your landscape. They can be planted in the spring and will bloom all summer long. Some good choices for annuals to plant with crepe myrtles include:
• Zinnias (Zinnia elegans)
• Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
• Petunias (Petunia spp.)
• Cosmos (Cosmos spp.)
• Impatiens (Impatiens walleriana)
• Shrubs: Shrubs can provide a backdrop for your crepe myrtles and add structure to your landscape. Some good choices for shrubs to plant with crepe myrtles include:
• Azaleas (Rhododendron spp.)
• Hydrangeas (Hydrangea spp.)
• Viburnums (Viburnum spp.)
• Roses (Rosa spp.)
• Boxwoods (Buxus spp.)
• Groundcovers: Groundcovers can help to fill in the spaces around your crepe myrtles and prevent weeds from growing. Some good choices for groundcovers to plant with crepe myrtles include:
• Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia)
• Vinca minor (Vinca minor)
• Pachysandra terminalis (Pachysandra terminalis)
• Mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)
• Strawberries (Fragaria spp.)

When choosing plants to plant around your crepe myrtles, it is important to consider the size of the mature plant, the amount of sun and water the plant needs, and the overall look you are trying to achieve. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and inviting landscape that features crepe myrtles as the centerpiece.

Tips for Planting and Caring for Plants Around Crepe Myrtles

Once you have chosen the right plants to plant around your crepe myrtles, it is important to properly plant and care for them so that they can thrive. Here are a few tips:

• Planting: When planting plants around your crepe myrtles, it is important to dig a hole that is large enough for the roots of the plant. The hole should be about twice the width of the root ball and the same depth as the root ball. Backfill the hole with soil, tamp it down firmly, and water the plant thoroughly.
• Watering: Crepe myrtles are drought-tolerant trees, but they do need regular watering, especially during the summer months. Water your crepe myrtles deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry.
• Fertilizing: Crepe myrtles do not require a lot of fertilizer, but they will benefit from a light application of fertilizer once a year in the spring. Use a slow-release fertilizer that is formulated for trees.
• Pruning: Crepe myrtles can be pruned to maintain their shape or to remove dead or diseased branches. Prune your crepe myrtles in the late winter or early spring, before the new growth begins.

By following these tips, you can help your plants to thrive and create a beautiful and inviting landscape that features crepe myrtles as the centerpiece.

Common Problems with Plants Around Crepe Myrtles

While crepe myrtles are generally healthy trees, they can be susceptible to a number of pests and diseases. Here are a few of the most common problems that you may encounter with plants around your crepe myrtles:

• Pests: Crepe myrtles can be attacked by a variety of pests, including aphids, mites, scale, and caterpillars. These pests can suck sap from the leaves and branches of your plants

  What To Plant Around Crepe Myrtles?

• Q: What are the best plants to plant around crepe myrtles?
• A: There are many different plants that can be planted around crepe myrtles, but some of the best options include:
• Azaleas: Azaleas are a popular choice for planting around crepe myrtles because they have similar growing conditions and bloom at the same time. They also provide beautiful flowers and attract butterflies.
• Hydrangeas: Hydrangeas are another good option for planting around crepe myrtles because they also have similar growing conditions and bloom at the same time. They come in a variety of colors, so you can choose one that complements the color of your crepe myrtles.
• Roses: Roses are a classic choice for planting around crepe myrtles, and they add a touch of elegance to any garden. They come in a variety of colors and fragrances, so you can find one that fits your needs.
• Perennials: Perennials are a great option for planting around crepe myrtles because they come back year after year, providing beautiful flowers and foliage. Some good options for perennials include daylilies, hostas, and coneflowers.
• Q: How far apart should plants be planted around crepe myrtles?
• A: The distance between plants will depend on the size of the plants and the mature width of the crepe myrtles. For example, if you are planting azaleas around a crepe myrtle, you should space them about 3 feet apart. If you are planting roses, you should space them about 5 feet apart.
• Q: What should I avoid planting around crepe myrtles?
• A: There are a few plants that you should avoid planting around crepe myrtles, including:
• Trees: Trees can compete with crepe myrtles for water and nutrients, and they can also block the sunlight that crepe myrtles need to thrive.
• Vegetables: Vegetables require a lot of nutrients and water, which can compete with crepe myrtles for these resources.
• Groundcovers: Groundcovers can smother the roots of crepe myrtles, which can damage the trees.
• Q: How do I care for plants around crepe myrtles?
• A: The best way to care for plants around crepe myrtles is to:
• Water them regularly, especially during dry spells.
• Fertilize them according to the package directions.
• Prune them as needed to maintain their shape and size.
• Protect them from pests and diseases.

By following these tips, you can help your plants thrive around your crepe myrtles.

In this article, we discussed the best plants to grow around crepe myrtles. We covered a variety of factors to consider when choosing companion plants, including the size, shape, and light requirements of crepe myrtles. We also provided specific recommendations for plants that work well with crepe myrtles, including perennials, annuals, shrubs, and trees.

We hope this article has helped you to choose the best plants to grow around your crepe myrtles. By considering the factors we discussed, you can create a beautiful and harmonious landscape that will enhance the beauty of your crepe myrtles for years to come.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

• Crepe myrtles are versatile trees that can be grown in a variety of conditions.
• When choosing companion plants for crepe myrtles, it is important to consider the size, shape, and light requirements of the plants.
• Some of the best plants to grow around crepe myrtles include perennials, annuals, shrubs, and trees.
• By carefully choosing companion plants, you can create a beautiful and harmonious landscape that will enhance the beauty of your crepe myrtles for years to come.