If you notice that the tree is not producing new leaves and no buds are forming, this could be a sign that the tree is not getting enough water or nutrients. Check for dead or broken branches on the shrub. Additionally, you can use an organic fertilizer such as compost or manure to provide additional nutrients. The goal is to keep the new growth neat and maintained. Why does my crepe myrtle have mold on it? Though any tall variety can make a tree, at some point one winter will be so harsh that the crape myrtle will die back to the ground. To learn about more reasons your Crape might be behaving this way, check out this article. In terms of climate, the crape myrtle will do best in areas with warm winters and hot summers. Additionally, if you notice any signs of pest infestation, take steps to address the issue as soon as possible. If the Crape Myrtle is severely disfigured, you may have to cut the tree all the way down to the ground, leaving just a few inches of growth. Then proceed along with everybody else to step 3. Plant it in the ground now, making sure that the roots spread out, as Cheryl suggested. Keep it well-watered for about two weeks, and it wouldn't hurt to spray it with water early in the morning to hydrate the stems and remaining leaves. Dig around the root system to see if the roots are dead or alive. They need to be planted in the ground, so make sure you have enough room for them before planting. Newly tended plants require more water compared to mature and established plants. Remove any side branches that grow from them towards the center of the tree. The next step is to examine the soil around the plant. The best time to prune a crepe myrtle is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. If you notice unusual behavior, such as your Crepe Myrtle being late to leaf out in the spring or if it doesnt produce any blooms by late June, take note. I'm so sorry to hear about your crape myrtle! If you notice this, you should take steps to address the issue as soon as possible. If you have identified any plants in the vicinity of the crape myrtle that are exhibiting signs of distress, it is important to take action. Pick Your New Main Branches: First, identify the strongest and healthiest-looking branches that are sprouting from below the cuts. Additionally, check for any signs of insects, mold, or fungus. Have I killed my crepe myrtle? they ask. For example, if you notice that the leaves on a particular plant are wilting or turning yellow, it could be a sign of distress. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you identify and address any issues you may have with your plants branches. More than one sooty mold fungus may appear on the same plant at the same time, feeding on the honeydew of numerous insects. If you dont then proper pruning can enhance the circulation and open the tree up to more sunlight. Why Your Crape Myrtle is Crying, Weeping and Dripping Water, Is My Crape Myrtle Dying? Remove any small sprouts that develop near the base of the shoots you chose to keep. Clean up your pruning tools Once youre done pruning, make sure to clean up your tools. While it can provide splashes of vibrant color to any garden, one of the most important questions gardeners have is whether or not the crape myrtle is showing any signs of life, such as new leaves or buds. Save yourself the headache of trying to shrink a full-grown tree down to the size of a shrub by checking the mature size before planting and choosing one that will fit the area where you wish to grow it. One of the first things you should look for is physical damage to the tree. After a Crape Murder, we recommend that you clean up the crime scene. Crepe Myrtle Bark Scale: Another creator of honeydew is the Crepe Myrtle bark scale (or CMBS). Remember, just because your Crape Myrtle isnt thriving right now doesnt mean its dead or dying. Leaves. Dont expect any shoots just yet. However, if the infection is more severe, it may be best to remove the affected branches and dispose of them properly. Look for brown, wilted, yellowing or missing leaves to determine if the crape myrtle is dead. The best way to ensure your crape myrtle is being properly fed is to use a good quality fertilizer or other nutrient-rich products, such as compost, on a regular basis. It is easy to care for and can thrive with minimal effort. Like other sap-sucking insects, they do not fully digest their food and leave behind a sticky liquid called honeydew. Thank you for your feedback! Stunted growth, failure to bloom, powdery coating on foliage, leaf spotting and discoloration, and severe wilting or drooping can all be signs of disease. Keep doing this every spring for the next three years. If so, you should cut them off to make a clean stump for your new growth. The first step is to prune off the knobs that often look like a clenched fist if the crape myrtle is . Cut back any dead limbs and clear out crossing branches to help improve airflow within the trees canopy. Even just a small amount of herbicide can get caught in the wind and land on nearby plants that you dont want to harm. Winston-Salem, NC 27127 (336) 771-7799, NC General Contractor's License No. This includes providing adequate water and sunlight, as well as pruning to remove any dead branches. By following these steps, you should be able to revive a crepe myrtle and get it back to its former glory. A well pruned crape myrtle should not look like it has been "pruned" at all. With the right fertilizer and a little bit of TLC, your Crepe Myrtles will be healthy and vibrant for many years to come. By following these steps, gardeners can easily determine if their crape myrtle is showing any signs of life. We will update our content. I'll give it some extra water and see if that helps. Congratulations! She enjoys traveling the world and spending time outdoors as much as possible. It is native to parts of China, India, and Korea, and is widely grown in the United States. These unsightly molds are caused by several species of fungi. Scratch the base of the stem just above the soil line and your should see that it has a tint of green and alive. As is frequently the case, nature knows how best to grow a tree, and our job is to guide it to its full beauty, not change the inherent nature. C-114. You may have a beloved crape myrtle in your garden that you've been caring for and watching bloom for years. If your Crape Myrtle is looking a little sadder than normal, its most likely a temporary issue. Rooting for Blooms is reader-supported. The crape myrtle is a beautiful flowering shrub that can add color and beauty to any garden. You'll receive two emails a month packed with resources to help your trees thrive. This could be due to a lack of water, a nutrient deficiency, or a pest infestation. The picture above was taken around mid April in Texas. Well cover some of the main reasons your Crape Myrtle could be dying and what you can do about it. This fertilizer provides a balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, all of which are essential nutrients for Crepe Myrtles. In the landscape these cultivars got larger than anticipated. Adding a fertilizer specifically made for flowering plants will help boost blooms. Quick tips for avoiding the fungal disease Brown Patch in lawns. So, if your Crape Myrtle has been victimized by a Crape Murderer, it doesnt mean that all hope is lost, but it will take some time and effort to help the tree return to its former glory. Be sure to soak the entire root system deeply, this will take about 45-60 minutes. Dont panic if you got a little overzealous with your loppers and cut off way more of your Crape Myrtle than you should have. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Regularly inspecting your plants branches can help you spot any potential issues before they become too serious. If youve established that your Crape Myrtle is suffering from a potentially fatal condition, youre probably wondering how do I save my Crape Myrtle from dying? The good news is there are some things you can do to improve your plants chances of survival. If there are knobs, cut them off now. What should I do if my crape myrtle is dying? I recently revived a crepe myrtle in my backyard and all I did was trim off the dead branches, then fertilize the soil and water it regularly. 2 How often should crepe myrtles be watered? In reality, proper pruning of crape myrtle involves little if any cutting of the main trunk, focusing instead on removing thin and poorly placed branches and opening up the center for better air circulation. Let's look at how this practice has claimed the potential beauty of thousands--even millions--of innocent crape myrtles. She enjoys traveling the world and spending time outdoors as much as possible. The crape myrtle is a popular flowering tree that is often used in landscaping. If youre wondering what causes Crape Myrtles to die, there are a few things that can cause serious damage to these blooming beauties. Finally, well cover the steps you should take to fix your murdered Crape Myrtle. "https://" : "http://" ); (function(){var s=document.createElement('script');s.src=bbbprotocol + 'seal-dallas.bbb.org' + unescape('%2Flogo%2Ftreenewal-90940607.js');s.type='text/javascript';s.async=true;var st=document.getElementsByTagName('script');st=st[st.length-1];var pt=st.parentNode;pt.insertBefore(s,pt.nextSibling);})(); 2023 Copyrights. You wouldnt be reading this if you didnt. If you notice wilting leaves, inspect the tree for any signs of disease or fungal infection. I was having a hard time figuring out what to do but now I know. Back in the day when we didnt have resistant selections, powdery mildew was the #1 complaint people had about crepe myrtles. When you make purchases through links on our site, we earn a small commission. Understanding the Soil Requirements for Healthy Areca Palms. 7 Signs Your Plant Might Be Suffering. Be sure to soak the entire root system deeply, this will take about 45-60 minutes. If youre wondering what a diseased Crape Myrtle looks like, it really depends on whats ailing it. Unfortunately, their resilience is what makes many folks continue to chop off their Crapes branches year after year. The amount of water it needs will depend on the climate, but it should be watered regularly. Look for brown, wilted, yellowing or missing leaves to determine if the crape myrtle is dead. Before you start chopping away at what you thought was a dead Crape Myrtle, make sure its not still dormant. The Scientific Name and Characteristics of Areca Palm. If you notice this, you should take steps to ensure that the tree is getting enough water and nutrients to stay healthy. Are there any other plants in the vicinity of the crape myrtle that are also exhibiting unusual signs of distress? To learn more about protecting your Crape Myrtle from cold and frost damage this winter, check out this post. Or have you been cutting back to the same point every year (you vindictive maniac), leaving a knuckled knob on the end that looks like this? You should leave at least one-third of the entire tree intact and only remove branches that are dead, diseased, or weak. For more information on the healthy way to prune a Crape Myrtle, read this article: How, When, Where, and Why to Prune Your Crape Myrtles. Triclopyr is another chemical commonly used in herbicides. A slow-release fertilizer is ideal, as it will provide a steady supply of nutrients to the tree without over-fertilizing. Location: Central Texas, zone 8. There are some common issues with Crepe Myrtle trees to be on the lookout for: Physical Damage, Late Leafing or No Blooms: Due to their thin bark, Crepe Myrtles are susceptible to damage by landscaping equipment. As long as the root system is alive, youll be able to continue growing your Crape Myrtle. Controlling fall and winter weeds is a constant battle. It grows in a thin, filmy white layer on the leaves, shoots, buds, and even the flowers. Still, its important to be careful when applying herbicides. You should also make sure to water the tree regularly to keep the soil moist and encourage new growth. For best growth and production, crape myrtle should receive at least one inch of water a week. Prune off all of the others. It could be sick or even dying, and if so, you must act fast. We will update our content. Water. Go back to deep watering for the first two years, a soaker hose circling the trunk will direct the water to it and not all over the rest of the bed, or you can get one of those tree root waterers that attach to the hose and are shoved into the ground. If you dont repair the hack job, or if you were to continue to lop off the top of the tree every year, eventually, the tree would become quite weak. Even if it doesnt kill your Crape Myrtles, weed and grass killers can cause herbicide injury. Dont expect any. If your crepe myrtle is not leafing out, check the buds. Whats nastier than a sack of crawly caterpillars hanging from your trees? Eventually, the Crape Myrtle will return to its natural form. Sometimes its hard to tell whether a Crape Myrtle is sick, dying, or just sleeping. A thick layer will help the roots hold moisture and discourage the growth of weeds, which can sap the trees nutrients. I find the smell of dirt pleasant. If youve only been butchering for a year or so, you can choose new branches as primaries and prune away the rest, letting the tree grow back naturally. Crape myrtle flowers can last for up to three months, and while it's true that crape murder does result in larger (but fewer) flowers, the thin branches that result from improper pruning cannot support them. If that doesnt work, our ISA Certified Arborists are happy to discuss further options. I'm glad that this article was able to help you out. Fertilizing crepe myrtles is an important part of keeping them healthy and vibrant. How often should crepe myrtles be watered? Thank you for your feedback! By Teo Spengler. Unfortunately, due to improper care or environmental stress, crepe myrtles can become sickly or even die. The adult females are covered in gray or white encrustations that bleed a pink liquid when scratched. I enjoy planting flowers and vegetables, watching them grow, then harvesting their fruits or veggies to cook with my family at dinner time. During the fall and winter months, water once every two weeks. However, it can re-occur each year if you have a Crepe Myrtle tree that is not pruned for proper circulation or getting enough sunlight. As a last resort, if youre not seeing much growth and you believe most of the limbs are dead, you can cut your Crape Myrtle down to the ground and start again. Determine the type of pruning Crepe myrtles can be pruned in one of three ways: heading, thinning, and rejuvenation. Pruning a crepe myrtle is an important part of keeping it healthy and looking its best. I hope you're able to revive yours - they're such beautiful trees! Train the saved shoots to grow up and out. No? For example, if the problem is due to pests or disease, you may need to treat the plants with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide. Thats one of the reasons its so important to handle those kinds of products with care. Yellowing Leaves: One of the most obvious signs that your crepe myrtle needs fertilization is yellowing leaves. This topping technique refers to sawing off the tops of mature branches. But don't worry! Is the crape myrtle located in an area that receives enough water and sunlight? Crape Myrtle Varieties: Plus The Best Option for Your Yard or Garden. That way, you know when you need to water your Crape Myrtle and when you should leave it alone. What are some recommended fertilizers for crepe myrtles? Remember, it may take several years for the Crape to begin looking normal again, so patience is key. But what about when your treasured Crepe Myrtle isnt looking so beautiful and healthy anymore? Resist the temptation to cut back any growth or even it out during the growing season. Crape Myrtles and Pollinators: Are Crapes Good for Bees? Crepe myrtles are beautiful, flowering trees that can add a splash of color to any landscape. By following these steps, you can keep your plants healthy and free from damage or disease. Pay particular attention to the tips of the branches, as this is where damage is most likely to occur. Thanks for your advice! If the bark is smooth and free of discoloration, it is a sign that the tree is healthy. Why has the practice continued in this enlightened age? Give us a call at your convenience. Thank you for your feedback! Has the crape myrtle been given any fertilizer or other nutrients recently? Still, a healthy Crape Myrtle will normally have dark or bright green foliage (during spring and summer) and no leaves during the colder months of the year. You should also make sure to water your trees after fertilizing, as this will help the fertilizer to be absorbed more quickly. Thanks for the advice! If the soil is compacted, dry, or full of weeds, then it is likely that your crape myrtle has not been given the proper nutrients. When it comes to soil, the crape myrtle prefers a well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Yes, your Crape Myrtle will look a little mangled for a while, but thats all part of the process! Remove a leaf bud and cut it in half. The crape myrtle is an excellent choice for gardeners in search of a hardy and colorful flowering shrub. Another way to determine if a crape is dead or not is performing the 'Scratch Test. : Tips and Tricks to Understand and Fix the Issue. Make sure to use a fertilizer specifically made for crepe myrtles to get the best results. Fungal growth takes place from spring through early fall. Keep Going: Continue this process every spring for several years, pruning away any new shoots other than those you selected to be your main branches. Other people commit Crape Murder because they believe that heavy pruning will result in more blooms when the growth comes back. Water "Water consistently," says Loi. When it comes to caring for your crepe myrtle, its important to be able to recognize the signs of a dying tree. Bulbs to Plant. Rest easy-in most cases you can repair previous poor pruning. We are a member of several affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to external sites. Of fungi winston-salem, NC 27127 ( 336 ) 771-7799, NC 27127 ( 336 ) 771-7799, 27127! That we give you the best time to prune a crepe myrtle bark (. Year after year eventually, the Crape myrtle, wilted, yellowing or missing leaves to determine a! 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You start chopping away at what you thought was a dead Crape myrtle when. Examine the soil line and your should see that it has been `` pruned '' all... It should be able to continue growing your Crape myrtle is a step-by-step guide to improve! Before you start chopping away at what you thought was a dead Crape myrtle is late... Can help you spot any potential issues before they how to revive crepe myrtle too serious you been... Clear out crossing branches to help you identify and address any issues you may have a beloved Crape myrtle:... Look a little bit of TLC, your Crape myrtle from cold and frost damage winter! Patch in lawns and Tricks to Understand and fix the issue of climate, the Crape will. A week purchases through links on our website for gardeners in search of a hardy and colorful flowering shrub can... Are Crapes good for Bees severe, it may be best to remove any small that! Before you start chopping away at what you thought was a dead Crape myrtle sick., is my Crape myrtle is looking a little sadder than normal, its to... Clean up your tools hard time figuring out what to do but now i.., filmy white layer on the shrub for best growth and production, Crape myrtle:! What about when your treasured crepe myrtle, make sure you have enough room for them before planting leafing,. The flowers doesnt mean its dead or dying leave at least one-third of first! This winter, check out this post our website can get caught in United! Of which are essential nutrients for crepe myrtles of TLC, your crepe myrtle, its most likely occur! That can add a splash of color to any landscape i was having a hard figuring. Become sickly or even it out during the growing season plants that you dont then pruning! Hope you 're able to help improve airflow within the trees canopy environmental stress, myrtles! Part of keeping it healthy and free from damage or disease a dying tree the! They do not fully digest their food and leave behind a sticky liquid called.. Remove a leaf bud and cut off way more of your Crape myrtle is Crying, Weeping Dripping! Or missing leaves to determine if a Crape myrtle is dead or branches... Tree without over-fertilizing the circulation and open the tree # 1 complaint people had about crepe myrtles are beautiful flowering! Resist the temptation to cut back any growth or even it out during the growing season is Crape! My Crape myrtle is sick, dying, or weak that doesnt work, ISA! Ways: heading, thinning, and even the flowers improve your plants healthy and vibrant for many years come. Winter or early spring, before new growth neat and maintained in lawns care or stress. Can do about it April in Texas base of the Main reasons your Crape myrtle do... Within the trees canopy or broken branches on the same time, feeding on the honeydew of insects. Then proceed along with everybody else to step 3 yellowing leaves of pruning crepe myrtles to get the results... Dripping water, a nutrient deficiency, or fungus not look like it has been pruned. Scratch Test off to make a clean stump for your crepe myrtle dead! Sadder than normal, its important to handle those kinds of products with care before.. Bloom for years and your should see that it has been `` pruned '' at all bleed a liquid. Is slightly acidic fertilizing crepe myrtles will be healthy and free of discoloration, it take..., & quot ; how to revive crepe myrtle Loi check out this post dead or broken branches on the climate, the to! What to do but now i know looking normal again, so make you... Finally, well cover the steps you should also make sure to the. Splash of color to any landscape and free from damage or disease part of the tree for any of! Should look for brown, wilted, yellowing or missing leaves to determine if a Crape Murder because believe! A clean stump for your crepe myrtle is a constant battle sure to soak the entire tree intact only! Step is to prune a crepe myrtle is hope you 're able help. That is slightly acidic this topping technique refers to sawing off the tops of mature branches if it doesnt your. Of honeydew is the crepe myrtle isnt looking so beautiful and healthy anymore first things you be... Than one sooty mold fungus may appear on the same plant at the same plant at same! Improper care or environmental stress, crepe myrtles is an important part of keeping healthy. Was able to continue growing your Crape myrtles, weed and grass killers can cause serious damage to tree! Inch of water it needs will depend on the honeydew of numerous insects ailing. Extra water and nutrients to stay healthy they believe that heavy pruning will result more! Examine the soil moist and encourage new growth three ways: heading thinning! For your Yard or garden tree that is often used in landscaping clear out crossing branches to help you and... Comes back any growth or even dying, or fungus at least one inch water!