Lagerstroemia indica 'Acoma' - Dwarf White Crepe Myrtle

Planting Tips: Ensuring a Strong Start

Site Selection: Full sun with well-drained soil for best flowering performance.

Digging the Hole: Twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.

Planting: Position the tree so the top of the root ball is at ground level. Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly.

Mulching: Apply a 5–7cm layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch away from the trunk.

Watering: Regular watering during establishment; deep watering during extended dry periods.

Feature Planting: 2.5 – 3 m apart

Hedging & Screening: 2 – 2.5 m apart for dense flowering screen

Mixed Borders: 2 – 3 m apart for layering effect

Caring for Your Tree

Watering: Water regularly while young; deep watering in dry conditions.

Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth and flowering.

Pruning: Best pruned in late winter to shape the canopy and promote better flowering.

Pest & Disease Monitoring: Highly resistant to powdery mildew, but monitor for aphids and treat if necessary.

Ideal Drainage: Crepe Myrtles require well-draining soil to prevent root rot and foster robust growth.

Soil Preferences:

Sandy Soils:

• Lagerstroemia thrives in sandy soils due to their excellent drainage.
• Enrich these soils with organic matter to improve moisture retention and provide necessary nutrients.
• Consider adding a slow-release fertilizer to enhance nutrient availability, which supports vibrant blooms and lush foliage.

Clay Soils:

• While clay soils are more challenging due to their density, Lagerstroemia can adapt if the soil is properly amended.
• Mix in organic material and sand to improve drainage.
• Creating raised beds or ensuring the planting area is well-drained can mitigate the risks of waterlogging.

Loamy Soils:

• Loamy soils are ideal for Lagerstroemia, offering a balance of nutrients and drainage.
• Incorporate compost to enhance soil fertility and structure.
• Maintain mulching to help retain moisture during hot spells, which is critical for blooming and overall health.

Acidic or Alkaline Soils:

• Lagerstroemia is adaptable to a range of soil pH but prefers slightly acidic conditions.
• For highly acidic or alkaline soils, adjust pH by adding lime (to reduce acidity) or sulfur (to increase acidity) to achieve optimal growing conditions.

General Care Tips:

• Crepe Myrtles are celebrated for their spectacular summer blooms and attractive, exfoliating bark.
• They require full sun and benefit from regular pruning to promote a strong, beautiful structure and increase bloom quantity.
• Watering should be consistent during the growing season, but reduced in the winter to match the plant's dormant state.

By understanding and managing these soil conditions, you can ensure your Lagerstroemia not only survives but thrives, becoming a stunning feature in your garden or landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lagerstroemia 'Acoma' suitable for small gardens?
Yes, its compact, weeping form makes it perfect for small spaces, courtyards, and feature planting.

How fast does it grow?
It has a moderate growth rate, reaching mature size within 5–10 years.

Does it require regular pruning?
Light pruning in late winter encourages denser branching and more prolific flowering.

Is it drought-tolerant?
Yes, once established, it is highly drought-resistant.

Does it attract wildlife?
Yes, its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.