Crepe Myrtle Losing Leaves

Question

We have two crepe myrtle trees that have done well for years. Lately, we have noticed that one of them is dropping leaves. The leaves turn a light pink and yellow color and drop just as if it was in the fall. Could this be caused by a weed killer than was used a few months ago?

Answer 1

It is possible, but unlikely that it is still affected by a weed killer. The effects from a weed killer would have worn off after a few days (in that it would not still be losing leaves). More likely, it is suffering from either a pest or fungus. Treat the tree with both a pesticide and fungicide to take care of both problems. Neem oil is good for this as it is both a pesticide and a fungicide.