Crapemyrtle Problems

Failure to leaf out - When a dormant crapemyrtle plant becomes dehydrated before planting, it may not leaf out at the normal time in the spring. With time it should begin new growth. The problem can be avoided by keeping container grown and balled and burlapped plants adequately watered and protected from drying sun and wind before they are planted. An alternative is to soak the entire plant in water for several hours before planting.

Failure to flower - The most likely reason for a crapemyrtle to fail to produce flowers is inadequate sunlight. They need full sun. Excessive nitrogen, wet soil, and competition from tree roots can contribute to the problem. Crapemyrtle flowers are produced on new growth. Plants that produce only a limited amount of new growth will produce only a few flowers. Some cultivars of crapemyrtles are late season bloomers.

Aphids - Crapemyrtle aphids are small, pale yellow insects. They feed on new growing tips and the underside of leaves. They secrete honey dew that may lead to sooty mold -- a black coating on the leaves. Natural predators for control include: lacewings, syrphids, ladybugs, praying mantis, and some wasps. You can sprays for aphid control with horticultural oil, insecticidal soap, or a registered insecticide.

Japanese beetles - can eat the leaves or the flowers as they open. Use Japanese beetle traps located away from the tree or spray with a registered insecticide such as Sevin.

Powdery mildew - is a fungus disease that affects new growth and flower buds. It first appears on leaves as a slightly, raised blister-like areas that turn into a grayish-white powdery growth. It occurs most often in crowded, low areas with poor air circulation. Flower buds may fail to open or open improperly. Affected leaves may be curled or distorted. Increasing the amount of sunlight and improving air circulation (by pruning or site selection) as well as planting resistant cultivars are the best methods to prevent powdery mildew. Since the fungus overwinters on plant debris and dormant buds, cleanup of leaves in the fall and destruction of diseased twigs will aid disease control.

Sooty mold - is a black, powdery coating that develops on leaves and twigs during cool, humid, cloudy weather. Sooty mold grows on honeydew that is secreted by aphids. Spraying to control aphids will reduce the amount of sooty mold.

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