Re: Crepe mrytle again

At 05:51 PM 8/29/98 -0700, Kishori & Brian Hutchings wrote:
>Talking to a customer at the local farmer's market today, i mentioned crepe
>myrtles to him and he says he has several vars. that are hardy here, but
>has never had a flower except from one that he almost killed. Can it be
>that, although we have a mild enough climate, something is missing to
>initiate flowering in our climes(heat?). 
>Would appreciate input on others with any experience here in the PNW.
>
>Brian on Saltspring Zone 7/8

Brian,  I purchased a beautiful candy pink crepe myrtle in full bloom from a
local nurseryman 2 years ago at this time.  He said that you must prune at
least 20% off the tree/shrub each year to force them to bloom because we
don't get the heat units that they need to set flowers like they do in the
east & south.  Last year, I pruned as he suggested & had fewer blooms, but
they were lovely.  This year, ditto but I don't see one single flower
coming, however the shrub has grown & looks great.  We had a long cool
spring, but have had heat and sun  for at least 2 months, so I don't know
what to think.  I was in PA 2 weeks ago and the Crepe Myrtles were in bloom
- they were so gorgeous.  I have seen them in bloom in Georgia and the
Carolinas in June/July.  I think perhaps we are doomed to only sporadic
bloom - doggone it!  
Marilyn Dube'
NATURAL DESIGN PLANTS
Hardy Perennials, Choice Tropicals
Portland, Oregon,  Zone 8b


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