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Crepe Myrtle Trees #929292

Asked April 22, 2026, 7:36 PM EDT

I have a number of young Crepe Myrtle trees. They were planted three years ago. They have been flourishing and healthy. We have had a number of extremely hot days this spring. Last week the night time temperatures dropped to 20 degrees. The new leaves on my trees turned brown and crunchy. Are my trees still alive? Thank you

Frederick County Maryland

Expert Response

Yes, they will probably be fine, but it may take them time (perhaps a few weeks) to generate and expand new growth to replace the leaves that were killed by the freeze. Many plants are being stressed by the ongoing drought, and while some (like crapemyrtle) have better tolerance to drought than others, it would still benefit them to be watered occasionally during dry periods. We suggest checking the crapemyrtle for water and soaking the root zone well if the soil feels somewhat dry to the touch about six inches deep.

Miri
Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied April 23, 2026, 10:16 AM EDT
Thank you so much, Miri! That answers my question.

On Thu, Apr 23, 2026 at 10:16 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied April 23, 2026, 10:30 AM EDT
You're welcome!
Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied April 23, 2026, 10:34 AM EDT

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