TheNaturePlanet

Today, I must introduce to you a tree that blooms in summer. Its name is crape myrtle. It is a kind of woody plant that belongs to small trees or deciduous shrubs. The flowering period lasts for a long time, and the flower color is generally mainly red, so it also has an alias called "Hundred Days Red".
The propagation of the crape myrtle trunk is very simple. As long as you cut and plant the old branches, the survival rate is extremely high, and the roots take shape quickly. In the flower market, many potted plants made into exquisite bonsai are sold. In fact, it is not difficult to maintain. It likes sunlight and should be exposed to the sun for at least 6 hours a day, because only in this way can it bloom abundantly. If the placement location does not have enough light, the number of flowers may be greatly reduced.
In terms of temperature, the suitable growth temperature is around 18°C to 30°C. It's okay if it's a bit hot in summer, but when the temperature exceeds 35°C, sunshade tools need to be added, otherwise it is likely to get sunburned. In winter, it has strong cold resistance and can withstand a short-term low temperature of about -10°C. However, if the temperature is lower than the suitable growth temperature for a long time, it will be easily frostbitten.
Crape myrtle has no high requirements for air humidity, so don't water it too frequently. During the growth period, the soil should be kept slightly moist. Never let there be water accumulation, otherwise the roots are likely to rot. In the hot summer, due to the rapid evaporation of water, the frequency of watering can be relatively increased. In winter, its growth is slow, and the frequency of watering should be reduced.
To maintain the crape myrtle well, we also need to take into account the soil environment it likes. Try to choose loose and well-drained sandy soil or clay soil, and the most suitable pH value is between 6.0 and 7.0. You can mix perlite, vermiculite or coarse sand into ordinary garden soil to improve drainage. For the healthy growth of flowers and trees, fertilization also has its own rules. At the beginning of spring when it starts to grow, apply a full-effect compound fertilizer once, and then apply it once every two months. However, be careful not to apply too much nitrogen fertilizer, otherwise it will only grow leaves and not bloom.
In addition, crape myrtle is prone to diseases and pests. Fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew, as well as aphids and scale insects, are quite common. Pay more attention during daily maintenance. Once you find any problems, treat them immediately, and in this way, the crape myrtle can grow healthily!