Crepe Myrtles Have Not Leafed Out

Question From: L. Hill - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States
Q: Several of my crape myrtles look bare except for tiny buds which look like they are growing to start leaves but have stalled and essentially are in a dormant mode. Three of these are very small plants about two years old and one is about four feet tall. Last year all of these looked fine. I have about 60 crapes total. Any suggestions? Thank you, Linda

A: I live in Michigan and have no first-hand experience growing Crepe Myrtles. A heavy frost when plants are in bud will damage the buds, but usually there are latent buds that will leaf out - so give them some time and keep them watered. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy