I grew my crepe myrtle from a cutting four years ago. It is now 150cm tall and we are in mid-summer but it shows no sign of flowering. It is in a north west facing position (in the southern hemisphere), in full sun and it looks to be growing vigorous. I even gave it a light prune last autumn. Will it every flower?
Isn't that a flower I see in the second photo? And maybe some unopened buds. Give it more time, it's still quite young.
The grass is very competitive for water and nutrients. I recommend clearing a one meter radius for the root zone, fertilize, mulch and deep water in this area.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/crepe-myrtle/crepe-myrtle-not-blooming.htm
https://www.crapemyrtle.com/fertilizing.html
But I recommend a slow release complete organic fertilizer like this:
https://www.domyown.com/dr-earth-organic-all-purpose-fertilizer-p-9485.html
https://www.domyown.com/dr-earth-total-advantage-rose-floral-fertilizer-p-9491.html
See attached pics. Should I be pruning all the small "twigs" off these trees?
This is up to you. It is unnecessary and you do not have to prune them at all, but it would not hurt to do so. Here is an article for more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/crepe-myrtle/acoma-crape-myrtle-care.htm
what do I put on Crepe myrtles that have some insects inside the trunk?
Consider using a pyrethroid contact spray and barrier repellent like this:
https://www.domyown.com/monterey-houseplant-insect-spray-p-11260.html
When and what should I feed my crape myrtle tree?
Begin fertilizing in Spring with the fertilizer of your choice (liquid, slow release or granules), when the first leaves start to appear. Established, well rooted, Crape Myrtles are heavy feeders. Lightly fertilize every two weeks throughout the spring and summer months. This will promote optimal new growth. Remember, Crape Myrtles only bloom on new growth.
Use a balanced 10-10-10 or slow release fertilizer.
In your article: No Leaves On Crepe Myrtle: Reasons For Crepe Myrtle Not Leafing Out -- towards the bottom you state: Many people feel that pruning tools should be cleaned with a household disinfectant or bleach between cuts when dealing with diseases; however, recent studies show that unless the plant has oozing wounds, disinfecting is not necessary, and disinfectants are likely to damage your tools. I have always seen the opposite comment. Is this true just for Crepe Myrtle; or all/most plants or is it an error? Much thanx ptorcivia0@outlook.com
We feel it is important to disinfect the tools to prevent the spread of disease.
My 1 year old healthy Crepe Murtle tree was broken/split down the middle of the tree. Can it be salvaged by deeping the broken end in crushed aspirin & placed in a jar of water. Will it take root? Thank you. Dianne
This article will help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/crepe-myrtle/how-to-propagate-crepe-myrtle-trees.htm
Crape myrtle feedings
This article will help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/crepe-myrtle/crepe-myrtle-not-blooming.htm