Did I murder my Crepe Myrtle?

[Sarah Grace]

Help! I’m not sure if I murdered my crepe myrtles? I pruned them back in early April, and live in Delaware. It is now the beginning of May, and I see no new growth whatsoever... I can’t remember if the buds come in later? I’m just worried that I stunted the growth for this year. Will it bloom? How’s my pruning job—my husband thinks I cut too much off and they might die. Also, should I be watering them regularly if it doesn't rain?

 

[marlingardener]

No Sarah Grace, the crepe myrtle police won't show up with a warrant for your arrest!
You didn't commit a felony, and the myrtles will eventually bud out and bloom. Everything across the USA has been a bit different this year.
How old are these myrtles? If they are three years or older, don't worry about watering them--their root system will be large enough and deep enough to suffice. If they are younger, give them a heavy (10 gal.) watering about every 10 days.
You did a good pruning job.

 

[Sarah Grace]

No Sarah Grace, the crepe myrtle police won't show up with a warrant for your arrest!
You didn't commit a felony, and the myrtles will eventually bud out and bloom. Everything across the USA has been a bit different this year.
How old are these myrtles? If they are three years or older, don't worry about watering them--their root system will be large enough and deep enough to suffice. If they are younger, give them a heavy (10 gal.) watering about every 10 days.
You did a good pruning job.

Whew. That’s good to know! They are at least 5 years old, I’d say. So it doesn’t seem strange that I don’t see growth yet? Thanks!!

 

[Sarah Grace]

Ok! It’s now mid May, and I’m finally seeing some new growth here! Yay