Garden Tips Newsletter
July 20, 2009
Crepe myrtles
Encourage continued blooming by cutting back the tips of the branches as flowers fade. This will remove the developing seed pods and encourage a second bloom. Make sure crepe myrtles are well watered during the summer and watch for powdery mildew. This grayish fungus attacks the foliage occurs under conditions of high humidity. Removing the small, twiggy growth from around the trunk and within the canopy will increase air circulation and discourage the spread of this disease. If a fungicide is needed be sure and apply according to label directions. There are many fungicides labeled for use on crape myrtle. One is Ortho’s Funginex. Look for the following active ingredients on the label of other fungicides: propiconazole, myclobutanil, tebuconazole, thiophanate-methyl, triforine, triadimefon, and dodemorph.
For more information on this disease of crape myrtle read the Extension information sheet #1666 The Plant Doctor: Powdery Mildew on Crape Myrtle.
Pesticide Safety
Before you use any pesticide, read the label carefully. Apply only to plants listed on the label. Not all pesticides can be used on all plants. Never blend different pesticides unless the label recommends it, and always apply at the specified rate and interval. Be mindful of the days required between last application and harvest of edible crops. Minimize the absorption of chemicals through the skin by wearing gloves, long sleeves, and long pants when you spray. Apply only in open, well-ventilated areas, and avoid breathing pesticide fumes. If you apply pesticides frequently or have respiratory problems, you may want to invest in a respirator. After spraying, wash your clothes separately from other laundry, and take a shower.
Lelia Scott Kelly, Ph.D., writes Garden Tips weekly and is a Horticulture Specialist with the Mississippi State University Extension Service. Her office is in the North Mississippi Research & Extension Center, Verona.