Crepe Myrtles Did Not Leaf Out On Top

Question From: K. Trapani - Williston Park, New York, United States
Q: I have 3 Muskogee crepe myrtles since spring 2014. I have them planted next to a garage & they are facing east. We are in zone 7 on Long Island NY. This spring we had to replace 2 of them since the tops never leafed out. They are 12 ft. High. Is there anything I can do to prevent the same thing this year?

A: Many crepe myrtles died from the bitter cold we experienced the last two winters. This winter El Nino will tame the polar vortex. Do be sure to keep the roots balls of your trees moist. 4 inches of mulch will help hold in moisture. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy