About Edward Gulliksen Expertise I can help to diagnose any Tree and Shrub related problem, whether it be a disease or insect infestation.
Experience I am an ISA Certified Arborist, Consulting Arborist and a licensed NYS Pesticide Applicator.
Organizations I am Vice President of the Professional Certified Applicators of Long Island as well as a member of the New York State Arboricultural Association and the Long Island Arboricultural Association.
Publications I write for Long Island.com as the Horticultural Expert.
Question Planted a lovely Cape Myrtle shrub in June 06 and it was gorgeous all summer and fall. It gets full sun and the leaves appear to be very healthy. It is now the end of July 07 and not a flower or bud in sight. I live in Long Island< New York. Suggestions for care would be appreciated. Thanks
Answer Audrey,
The majority of the time it is pruning that is at fault for non-blooming Crape Myrtles. If the plant was pruned in the spring, then most (if not all) of the flower buds were pruned off as these plants flower on the current years growth. The best time to prune is in August.
These plants do best in full sun- if they are not in full sun, then there will be reduced flowering. High nitrogen fertilizers can also contribute to no blooms.
