Home Grown Notions: Crepe Myrtles/Dead or Alive?

Crepe Myrtle: Dead or Alive?

Many of you, no doubt have been frantically wondering "is my crepe myrtle dead or alive?" Patience is virtue with plants like crepe myrtles. Due to the harsh winter we had this year, several trees, shrubs, and roses did not make it. Crepe myrtles are slow to show life anyway, but this year they are behind even more. If they aren't showing any kind of life by now, they are probably goners.  Before you dig them up, look for new growth from their roots. You should cut away any dead portions to allow the new shoots optimum growth.

This also goes for roses, butterfly bushes, hardy hibiscus, and even ornamental grasses. For the last several years Kentucky has had very mild winters. This past winter was another story and several were lost to Mother Nature. Look at the bright side, this will give you an opportunity to try something new or different! If you decide to replace those, now would be the time to do so.

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The next best time is now. ~Chinese Proverb

From your friends at Mammoth Cave Transplants. Check out our Facebook here for all our latest!