Crape myrtles put on their best displays in August, with colorful blooms continuing through the hottest part of summer in USDA Hardiness Zones 6-9. Although these shrubs and trees are generally easy to care for, extended heat and drought can put plants under stress, particularly those that are newly planted or growing in containers.
The key to keeping crape myrtles looking their best through late summer is resisting the urge to overmanage them. Established plants generally need little intervention beyond watering during prolonged dry spells and keeping an eye out for pests and disease.
