Question
QUESTION: I have two Tonto Crape Myrtles that are 5 years old and very healthy. They have bloomed nicely each year. I did light pruning only but did this just after the new spring growth started this year. Both plants have healthy new growth on all branches but do not seem to be going to bloom. I did fertilize with Miracle gro spray liquid just after pruning. Will they still bloom this year or do I have to do something? I am in Belair, Maryland and it is July 3rd. thanks

ANSWER: Hi Ron,
Thanx for your question.  By pruning this past Spring you probably cut off the blooming buds.  You should prune only directly after the shrub has bloomed or is blooming.  If you haven't had buds by now, you will not have any this year.  I hope this helps.
Tom

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Just yesterday I noticed that many branch tips are forming what looks like small flower buds. If these are flower buds does that mean that my Crape Myrtles should still fully bloom , but just be delayed because I pruned just as they were coming out of dormancy in late spring ? Can I do anything fertilizer wise etc. Thanks-Ron

Answer
Hi Ron,
Thanx for your question.  If you have identified flower buds, perhaps your crape myrtle will be blooming soon.  All you can do now is wait.  If they're going to bloom, it should be happening in the next couple of weeks.  I hope this helps.
Tom