leaf discoloration on Crape Myrtle - Ask Extension
Hello! We have a lovely Crape Myrtle that we planted this last spring. I noticed this morning that it has discoloration on outer leaves, in between...
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leaf discoloration on Crape Myrtle #878783
Asked July 25, 2024, 4:41 PM EDT
Hello! We have a lovely Crape Myrtle that we planted this last spring. I noticed this morning that it has discoloration on outer leaves, in between the veins. The discoloration appears to be brownish/yellowish and it does seem to be limited to leaves toward the ends of branches. I've been watering regularly, using a Tree Gator, as can be seen in one of the pictures. It has a 15 gallon capacity and, depending on the heat, I fill it every 4th or 5th day.
What might be causing the discoloration? Thank you SO much!
Benton County Oregon
Expert Response
Thanks for contacting "ask extension" with your question about your Crape Myrtle.
Since your tree was recently transplanted, I suspect the root system is not established enough to support the upper canopy. The root system cannot efficiently transport nutrients to the leafs. The tree may drop leaves or branches to compensate, until the root ball catches up, but it should work itself out.
Another possibility is too much water. Before you refill your tree gater, first check the soil about 3-6 inches below the surface to see if it's still wet. If so, wait until it is dry to add more water.
Not as probable, but something to rule out is insect or bacterial/fungal damage.
Check the underside of the leaf for insects and keep an eye out to see if the spots are spreading. If the spots spreads down the branch to the older leaves or if you see possible insect damage, please take pictures and send them to me.
Hope this helps,
Since your tree was recently transplanted, I suspect the root system is not established enough to support the upper canopy. The root system cannot efficiently transport nutrients to the leafs. The tree may drop leaves or branches to compensate, until the root ball catches up, but it should work itself out.
Another possibility is too much water. Before you refill your tree gater, first check the soil about 3-6 inches below the surface to see if it's still wet. If so, wait until it is dry to add more water.
Not as probable, but something to rule out is insect or bacterial/fungal damage.
Check the underside of the leaf for insects and keep an eye out to see if the spots are spreading. If the spots spreads down the branch to the older leaves or if you see possible insect damage, please take pictures and send them to me.
Hope this helps,
Thank you so much for your helpful response!
~Katherine
You're welcome!
