The practice of lead off crepe myrtles is unfortunately quite vulgar , but it is actually damaging to the health and beauty of the tree diagram . multitude often repair to lead crepe myrtles with the mistaken notion that it will preclude limb breaking , shake up newfangled growth , and control the sizing and figure of the tree diagram . However , this practice is based on misinformation and can cause more scathe than good .
One of the main reasons people top off crape Vinca minor is to prevent arm breakage . They believe that by cutting off the branches , they can reduce the weight unit and prevent them from snap during storms or high winds . While it may seem logical , topping off actually weaken the tree diagram ’s structure and makes it more prone to breakage . When the top of the tree is removed , it disrupts the natural equilibrium between the roots and the crown , leading to a weakened tree diagram that is less able to withstand tension . Additionally , the new growth that emerges from the cut branches is often weakly attached and more susceptible to breakage .
Another misconception is that topping off French pancake myrtles will induce unexampled ontogeny . People mistakenly think that by cutting back the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree , they will encourage it to bring on more branch and flowers . However , this is not the case . Topping off really inhibits the tree diagram ’s ability to get unexampled growth because it removes the tree diagram ’s energy reserves stored in the branches and leaves . Without these reticence , the tree is ineffectual to produce the necessary nutrients for new development , result in sparse and weak regrowth .
citizenry also top off crepe myrtles in an attempt to ascertain the sizing and shape of the tree . They may want to keep the tree diagram at a certain height or mould it to fit into a specific space . While it may seem like a flying fix , topping off is not an effective long - term solution for tree sizing control . Crepe myrtles are naturally multi - stemmed trees and topping them only encourage the growth of multiple upright shoots , creating a dense and unsightly canopy . It also disrupts the natural shape and smasher of the tree , resulting in an unnatural and unattractive appearance .
In my personal experience as a horticulture and landscaping expert , I have happen many instances where crepe paper myrtle have been topped off . In most case , the tree suffer from weakened structure , thin regrowth , and an unsympathetic appearance . I have catch crepe myrtles that have been exceed off repeatedly over the years , resulting in a stunted and disfigured tree that is far from its lifelike ravisher .
To summarize , topping off crepe myrtles is a misguided practice that aims to prevent arm breaking , shake raw growth , and insure the size and shape of the tree . However , it actually weakens the tree diagram , inhibit newfangled increment , and creates an abnormal and unattractive appearance . It is of import to educate ourselves and others about the proper care and maintenance of trees to guarantee their wellness and seniority .
Caroline Bates
