Question
5 years ago I set out some 'dwarf' crepe myrtils.  I prune them every winter.  They were supposed to grow to a height of 4-6 feet, but they have remained about the same size.  Should I refrain from pruning or is there some plant food or fertilizer that will help them to grow?   Thanks!!!

Answer
Hi John,
Thanx for your question.  Crepe myrtles should be pruned after their finish blooming in late summer or early fall.  Be careful not to prune to severely.  You didn't say how tall they were so I'm assuming 2 or 3 feet.  I think you should feed you crepe myrtles a fertilizer rated for flowering trees and shrubs.  You should be able to find various brands of this in your local nursery.  Follow instructions on the package.  Also, be sure to water young shrubs and trees for the first two years if you are experiencing dry conditions.  A good deep soaking once a week if no regular rain will help.  I wouldn't cut on them anymore until you see some significant growth.  Also, some crepe myrtles don't do well north of zone 7.  It can take them a long, long time to grow and some will never grow like they do in the South.  I know some nurseries are selling crepe myrtles in the north and some do very well but others do not.  Do you know the variety you have, where are you located and what type of environment are your crepe myrtles planted?  Full sun?  North slope? Close to a building, out in the middle of a yard, as a hedge?  I hope this helps.
Tom