How to properly prune a crape myrtle without harming the tree. Join Alicia, our ISA Certified Arborist and Horticulturalist here at Verdant Landscape, as she explains the right way to prune a crape myrtle. WHY we prune Pruning should always have a clear objective: • Create clearance • Reduce risk • Improve structure and/or shape • Remove dead or broken branches WHEN to prune The best time to prune crape myrtles is during the dormant season, typically December through mid-February. HOW to prune •