Crepe myrtles are wonderfully low-maintenance trees, but timing your care activities correctly makes a significant difference to their health and flowering performance. Understanding the natural cycle of your crepe myrtle helps you provide the right support at the right time, leading to stronger growth and more abundant blooms.
This month-by-month calendar is tailored specifically for Australian conditions. Our seasons are reversed from the Northern Hemisphere guides you might find online, and our climate challenges are unique. Use this calendar as your year-round reference for crepe myrtle care.
Summer (December - February)
Summer is peak flowering season for crepe myrtles, and your main job is to sit back and enjoy the spectacular display. However, a few simple tasks can extend the flowering period and keep your tree looking its best.
December
- Enjoy the blooms: Most varieties are in full flower by early December
- Water deeply: Ensure established trees receive a deep soak during heat waves
- Check mulch: Ensure 5-10cm of mulch is in place to retain soil moisture
- Newly planted trees: Water twice weekly during hot spells
January
- Deadhead spent blooms: Removing faded flower clusters can encourage repeat flowering
- Monitor for pests: Check for aphids, which are attracted to new growth
- Continue deep watering: Especially during extended hot, dry periods
February
- Second flush of flowers: Many varieties produce a second wave of blooms
- Continue deadheading: Keep removing spent flowers for extended display
- Watch for powdery mildew: Humid conditions can trigger fungal issues
Summer Watering Tip
Even drought-tolerant established crepe myrtles benefit from occasional deep watering during extreme heat. A thorough soak every 2-3 weeks during heat waves helps maintain flower production. Water in the early morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Autumn (March - May)
Autumn brings the end of flowering and the beginning of the beautiful foliage transition. This is also an excellent time for planting new trees, as the cooler weather and autumn rains help establish root systems before summer.
March
- Final flowers: Late varieties may still be producing some blooms
- Reduce watering: As temperatures drop, trees need less water
- Autumn colour begins: Watch for leaves turning yellow, orange, and red
- Plant new trees: Excellent time to add new crepe myrtles to your garden
April
- Peak autumn colour: Enjoy the brilliant foliage display
- Stop fertilising: Don't encourage new growth before winter
- Good planting month: Cooler weather is ideal for transplanting
- Remove fallen leaves: Keep garden beds tidy
May
- Leaves falling: Tree preparing for winter dormancy
- Last chance to plant: Before winter fully arrives
- Plan winter pruning: Assess tree structure while leaves are still visible
Key Takeaway
Autumn is the best time to plant new crepe myrtles in Australia. The cooling temperatures and autumn rains reduce transplant stress and allow roots to establish before summer heat arrives.
Winter (June - August)
Winter dormancy is the quiet season for crepe myrtles. The bare branches reveal the beautiful bark, and this is the time for any necessary pruning. Beyond that, established trees need virtually no care during these months.
June
- Full dormancy: Tree is completely leafless
- Enjoy the bark: Smooth, mottled bark is on full display
- No watering needed: Winter rainfall is usually sufficient
- Assess structure: Easy to see branch framework without leaves
July
- Pruning time: Best month for any necessary pruning
- Remove suckers: Clear any shoots from the base of the trunk
- Thin crossing branches: Improve air circulation for next season
- Avoid heavy topping: Remember, no crepe murder!
August
- Complete pruning: Finish all pruning before spring growth begins
- Prepare to fertilise: Get ready for the spring feeding
- Check mulch levels: Top up if necessary before spring
- Watch for new buds: Growth will begin soon
Winter Pruning Window
The ideal pruning window is July to early August. Prune while the tree is fully dormant, but before spring growth begins. If you miss this window, wait until next winter rather than pruning during active growth.
Spring (September - November)
Spring is an exciting time as your crepe myrtle wakes from dormancy. Fresh green leaves emerge, followed by rapid growth as the tree prepares for its summer flowering display. This is when you can help your tree build the resources it needs for spectacular blooms.
September
- New growth appears: Fresh green leaves emerge from dormant buds
- Apply fertiliser: Use a slow-release fertiliser for flowering plants
- Resume watering: If spring is dry, begin supplementary watering
- Check for pests: Aphids may appear on tender new growth
October
- Rapid growth: Tree is putting on significant new growth
- Increase watering: Growing trees need more water
- Remove late suckers: Any missed during winter pruning
- Watch for flower buds: May begin forming on early varieties
November
- Flower buds developing: Clusters forming at branch tips
- Maintain watering: Consistent moisture helps flower development
- Prepare for summer: Check mulch, irrigation systems
- Early blooms: Some early varieties begin flowering late November
Fertilising Schedule
Crepe myrtles are not heavy feeders, but an annual application of fertiliser in spring helps support healthy growth and abundant flowering. Here's a simple fertilising guide:
- When: September, as new growth begins
- What: Slow-release fertiliser for flowering plants (low nitrogen)
- How much: Follow packet directions based on tree size
- Application: Spread evenly under the canopy, water in well
Avoid fertilising in autumn or winter, as this can stimulate soft new growth that's vulnerable to frost damage. If your tree is growing well and flowering abundantly, you may not need to fertilise at all. Over-fertilising, especially with high-nitrogen products, can actually reduce flowering.
Regional Adjustments
Australia spans multiple climate zones, and you may need to adjust this calendar slightly based on your location:
Tropical and Subtropical (QLD, NT, Northern WA)
Flowering may begin earlier (November) and continue longer. The tree may not fully lose its leaves in winter. Wet season humidity increases disease pressure, so good air circulation is important.
Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth)
This calendar is most applicable to temperate zones. Follow the schedule as written for best results.
Cool Temperate (Tasmania, Mountain Areas)
Spring growth and flowering begin later. Prune slightly later (August) to avoid late frost damage to new growth. Choose varieties known for cold tolerance.
By following this seasonal care calendar, you'll provide your crepe myrtle with the support it needs at exactly the right time, resulting in a healthy, beautiful tree that rewards you with years of stunning summer colour.