Tonto Crape Myrtle Tree for Sale - Buying & Growing Guide

Planting and Care

by John Haryasz | Horticulture Writer and Landscape Designer – last update on October 7, 2022

Planting instructions

The tonto crape myrtle tree can adapt to many different soil types but will perform the best when it lives in soil that is moist but well-draining and contains plenty of nutrients. The area in which you plant this species should also receive 6 hours of light per day. However, it’s possible for this plant to survive with a bit less light, too. Dig a hole that is considerably wider than this plant’s root ball to encourage the roots to spread outward. Adding a thick layer of mulch to the planting area will help maintain proper soil moisture.

Watering and nutrients

During this plant’s establishment period, you’ll need to water it about twice per week or more to maintain consistent soil moisture. As this plant gets a bit older, it will begin to develop drought tolerance. Despite that, it is better to continue watering your tonto crape myrtle about once per week during the growing season. You should plan to feed your tonto crape myrtle tree just once per year in the early spring, using a balanced fertilizer.

Pollination

Pollination is not typically a concern of those who grow the tonto crape myrtle tree, as this plant does not produce a harvest of fruits that humans commonly eat. In the spring, when the plant is in bloom, it will attract several pollinator species, including bees, which will transfer pollen from one flower to another. Since the tonto crape myrtle is a self-pollinating species, it is able to conduct pollination on its own without the need for an additional pollinator companion plant.

Pruning

As is the case for most crape myrtle trees, it is best to prune your tonto crape myrtle tree during the late winter and early spring while the plant remains in its dormancy phase. When pruning, you should use tools that are as sharp and clean as possible. Use those tools to remove any dead or damaged limbs from the tree and to thin the canopy to promote air circulation. You can also perform deadheading while this plant is in bloom to promote more flowering.

Pests, diseases and animals

The tonto crape myrtle tree is known to have incredible disease resistance compared to other related crape myrtle varieties. This plant not only wards off infections but is also able to resist deer browsing better than most plants as well. However, this general toughness and durability expand beyond this plant’s ability to resist disease, as the tonto crape myrtle tree is also capable of surviving in many different soil types with ease. As such, this plant will remain healthy on its own in just about any planting location.

Achieving maximum results

When pruning a young tonto crape myrtle tree, it is helpful to focus on developing a set of three to five main branches. Establishing these main branches at a young age allows this plant to develop a strong and healthy structure and helps ensure the canopy does not become overcrowded. During pruning, you should also look out for any shoots or leaves that emerge from the base of this tree’s trunk, as that growth can detract from the plant’s main form.

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