is it actually on its way out? Don’t worry, I’ve been there! I once thought my old crape myrtle was a goner, but it turned out it was just a bit grumpy.
Let’s talk about how to figure out if your crape myrtle is just being a bit moody or if it’s actually calling it quits.
First things first, remember that crape myrtles are tough cookies. They can handle a lot of abuse and still come back looking pretty. But even the toughest plant can get overwhelmed sometimes.
So, what are some signs that your crape myrtle might be on its last legs?
Signs of a Dying Crape Myrtle:
It’s lost its leaves. Now, remember, crape myrtles are deciduous, meaning they lose their leaves in the fall. But if your crape myrtle is bare in the middle of summer, that’s not normal. That’s a sign that something’s wrong.
The branches are brittle. If you can snap a branch in half with your bare hands, it’s definitely not doing well. That means the wood is dead.
The bark is peeling. This could be a sign of disease or pests, but it’s not necessarily a death sentence. But if the bark is really loose and falling off, it’s a bad sign.
It’s got weird spots. If you see black spots on the leaves, or if the leaves are turning yellow or brown, it could be a sign of disease or pest infestation.
The trunk is soft or mushy. If you can push your finger into the trunk and it’s soft or mushy, that’s a sign of decay, which is pretty serious.
How to Tell if Your Crape Myrtle is Still Alive:
There’s a handy trick called the “scratch test” that can help you figure out if your crape myrtle is still alive.
1. Find a branch that’s still green. Don’t pick one that’s already dead and dry.
2. Scratch the bark with your fingernail. If you see green underneath the bark, your crape myrtle is still alive. If you see brown, it’s dead.
What You Can Do:
If you’re not sure if your crape myrtle is dying or just having a bad day, there are a few things you can do to help it out.
Give it some water. Crape myrtles need regular watering, especially during hot weather.
Feed it. A good fertilizer can help your crape myrtle recover from stress.
Check for pests and diseases. Look for any signs of insect infestation or disease. If you find any, treat them accordingly.
How to Tell if Your Crape Myrtle is Dead:
If you’ve done all the above and your crape myrtle still looks like it’s on its last legs, it’s probably time to say goodbye. Here are some signs that your crape myrtle is dead:
No new growth. Even if you prune the dead branches, if you don’t see any new growth emerging, then your crape myrtle is likely dead.
The leaves are dry and brittle. This is a sure sign that the leaves are dead and won’t be coming back.
The branches are hollow. If you can see into the branches, it’s a sign that the wood is decaying.
What to Do With a Dead Crape Myrtle:
If you’re sad to see your crape myrtle go, it’s okay to feel that way. But it’s important to remove it before it becomes a safety hazard.
1. Cut it down. Use a chainsaw to remove the tree as close to the ground as possible.
2. Remove the stump. You can try to remove the stump yourself or hire a professional to do it.
3. Plant a new tree. Once you’ve removed the dead tree, you can plant a new one in its place.
So, there you have it! Hopefully this has given you a better understanding of how to tell if your crape myrtle is dying. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. If you’re not sure, it’s always a good idea to consult with a tree care professional.
Now, tell me about your crape myrtle. What’s its story? Is it a stubborn survivor or a delicate beauty? Let’s chat!
