Crepe Myrtle Bark Turning Black And Leaves Have Black Mold Coating

Question From: R. Lawson - Fort Smith, Arkansas, United States
Q: It is the middle of Feb. my crape myrtles were pruned the first week of Feb. Now they look like they have been through a fire. The bark is turning black. The rest of the crape myrtles in the area don't look that way. This past summer my plants did not bloom much and the leaves had a black mold coating on them that would rub off. can you tell me what is going on? Thanks a lot.

A: Sounds like a fungal disease. I recommend you have a certified arborist do an onsite inspection. If you want your trees to live you need to have them treated by a professional. To find a professional in your area go to www.tcia.org. Best Nancy and thanks for visiting Yardener.com.