About My Crape Myrtle

Question

I bought a crape myrtle tree in late March that was dormant. I planted it, but it still looks dead. Is it dead? Or still in dormant? When should it show signs of life?

Answer 1

My crepe myrtle is usually the last one in the neighborhood to start leafing, budding and blooming. While other people’s trees and bushes are loaded with flowers mine isn’t. But when mine does bloom, it blooms fuller and longer than everyone else’s. Your tree is probably still in shock from the move. I would give it at least another 6 weeks to recover. Also, it depends on your climate. If you are in a colder area it will take longer to get started. For the first couple of years I wouldn’t compare your cm to other more established trees around it. My tree just started budding leaves a week ago and usually blooms around Father’s Day, and I am in south Texas. Hope some of that helps.

Answer 2

This article will help you determine if the tree is still alive or simply slow to start: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/how-to-tell-if-a-plant-is-dead-and-how-to-recover-an-almost-dead-plant.htm