Crepe Myrtle Services in Baton Rouge, LA

Q: What happens if crepe myrtles are over-pruned?

Over-pruning, or 'crepe murder,' weakens the tree, encourages weak shoots, and reduces flowering. Proper pruning avoids these problems.

Crepe myrtles are one of the most popular trees in Baton Rouge and across southern Louisiana. Known for their colorful summer blooms and graceful shape, they bring life and charm to both residential and commercial landscapes. But as beautiful as they are, crepe myrtles require proper care to thrive. With this in mind, at Zachary Tree Service, we provide complete crepe myrtle services, including crepe myrtle pruning, crepe myrtle tree trimming, and crepe myrtle removal when necessary. We’re also proud to serve property owners throughout Baton Rouge and the surrounding communities, including Denham Springs, Prairieville, Gonzales, Zachary, Central, Port Allen, Baker, and Walker.

The Importance of Proper Crepe Myrtle Care

Crepe myrtles are hardy trees, but without the right care, they can quickly lose their beauty and health. Unfortunately, many property owners in Louisiana are familiar with “crepe murder,” a practice where trees are cut back too harshly, leaving them with weak growth and unattractive shapes.

Professional crepe myrtle pruning makes all the difference. By using careful tree trimming techniques, we promote healthy blooms, encourage strong structure, and maintain a natural, elegant appearance. With the combination of Baton Rouge’s hot summers and humid climate, these trees need thoughtful attention to ensure they remain vibrant year after year.

Our Crepe Myrtle Services

At Zachary Tree Service, we understand the unique needs of crepe myrtles and provide tree services that keep them looking their best:

Crepe Myrtle Pruning – We carefully prune branches to remove dead or crossing limbs while maintaining the tree’s natural shape. Proper pruning improves flowering and prevents damage.
Crepe Myrtle Tree Trimming – Seasonal trimming helps control size, enhance symmetry, and reduce risks from storm-damaged branches.
Crepe Myrtle Removal – When a tree is diseased, damaged beyond saving, or planted too close to a structure, we provide safe and efficient tree removal.
Ongoing Maintenance – Regular care ensures your trees stay healthy, balanced, and free from common problems like mildew and insect infestations.

Our approach avoids over-pruning and instead focuses on preserving the beauty and longevity of each tree.

Common Problems with Crepe Myrtles in Baton Rouge

While crepe myrtles thrive in Louisiana’s climate, they’re not without challenges. Some of the most common issues we address include:

Powdery Mildew – A white or gray fungus that spreads quickly in humid conditions.
Aphids and Sooty Mold – Insects that feed on leaves and leave behind residue that weakens the tree.
Storm Damage – High winds can snap branches or leave trees misshapen.
Overgrowth – Without trimming, crepe myrtles can grow too tall or dense, limiting airflow and sunlight.
Poor Pruning Practices – Harsh or incorrect cuts can harm the tree’s health and appearance.

By scheduling professional pruning and trimming, these issues can often be prevented or corrected before they cause lasting damage.

Why Choose Professional Crepe Myrtle Care

Many homeowners attempt to trim crepe myrtles themselves, but these trees require a precise touch. Cutting too much or at the wrong time can weaken them and reduce blooms for the season. Our trained team knows how to prune correctly, taking into account the tree’s age, size, and placement on your property.

We’ve worked with crepe myrtles across Baton Rouge, from small decorative plantings in front yards to long rows lining driveways in Gonzales or Prairieville. Each tree deserves individualized care, and that’s exactly what our arborists in Baton Rouge provide.

When Crepe Myrtle Removal Is the Right Choice

While pruning and trimming usually preserve a crepe myrtle, there are times when removal is unavoidable. Common reasons include:

Severe Disease or Infestation – When treatment won’t restore the tree’s health.
Storm Damage – If the tree is split or leaning dangerously after high winds.
Improper Placement – Trees planted too close to homes, fences, or sidewalks may need to be removed.
Landscape Redesign – Making way for new construction or landscaping changes.

We perform removals safely and thoroughly, ensuring your property is left clean and ready for your next project.

FAQ: Crepe Myrtle Services in Baton Rouge, LA

How often should crepe myrtles be pruned?

Once a year is usually enough, ideally in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

What happens if crepe myrtles are over-pruned?

Over-pruning, or “crepe murder,” weakens the tree, encourages weak shoots, and reduces flowering. Proper pruning avoids these problems.

Can you restore a crepe myrtle that has been cut back too far?

In many cases, yes. With careful pruning and time, we can help the tree recover its shape and health.

Do you offer crepe myrtle services for commercial properties?

Absolutely. We provide pruning, trimming, and removal for both residential and commercial landscapes across the Baton Rouge area.

What’s the difference between trimming and pruning for crepe myrtles?

Pruning focuses on health, removing diseased, damaged, or crossing branches, while trimming focuses on shape, size, and aesthetics.

Preserve the Beauty of Your Crepe Myrtles

Crepe myrtles are a highlight of Baton Rouge landscapes, offering brilliant color and character year after year. But keeping them healthy and attractive requires more than occasional maintenance: it takes knowledgeable care. That’s why, at Zachary Tree Service, we provide expert crepe myrtle pruning, crepe myrtle tree trimming, and safe crepe myrtle removal when needed. So whether you’re in Denham Springs, Prairieville, Gonzales, Zachary, Central, Port Allen, Baker, or Walker, our team is here to protect and enhance your property. Just be sure to call us today at 225-351-2574 to schedule your crepe myrtle service and let us help you keep your trees thriving season after season.