Crepe myrtle branches falling on the ground

Question

Crepe myrtle branches falling on the ground, won’t stand on their own. Thick branches, up to 2″ thick, broke off. Branches are as long as 7 feet with flowers on the end. Do I need to trim off the tops?

Answer 1

There is a specific way to prune crepe myrtle so that the branches will be shorter and stronger. Don't worry, this is a common problem. Please see the following articles for advice.

http://www.clemson.edu/extension/hgic/plants/landscape/trees/hgic1009.html
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/crepe-myrtle/pruning-crepe-myrtle-trees.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/crepe-myrtle/best-crepe-myrtle-pruning-time-when-to-prune-crepe-myrtle.htm