Each spring across Lakeland, crape myrtle trees are often cut back to thick, bare stubs in a practice widely referred to as “crape murder.” Although many homeowners believe this aggressive pruning encourages stronger growth, horticulture experts warn that it can actually harm the tree over time.
Wesley Wright, a local landscape business owner, says the practice remains common but is largely misunderstood.
“It’s not just about appearance—it directly affects the health of the tree,” Wright explained. “When crape myrtles are cut back too severely, they respond by producing long, weak shoots that are much more susceptible to breaking during storms.”…