Ready to pull this Crape Myrtle

[themetallurgist]

This tree has only bloomed one time in what seems like forever. 7 years maybe? And that was only because I trimmed it back the winter before. It is probably getting too much nitrogen since I feed the grass. About a month ago I gave it some 15, 15, 15 granules and now the leaves seem to be dying. All other crape myrtle have full blooms right now. It was about to bloom a bit, but the buds seem to have fallen off. I shouldn't need to trim it every year to get it to bloom. I was going to not fertilize that area at all next spring. Think that will get it to bloom? (Less nitrogen) thank you!

 

[DirtMechanic]

This tree has only bloomed one time in what seems like forever. 7 years maybe? And that was only because I trimmed it back the winter before. It is probably getting too much nitrogen since I feed the grass. About a month ago I gave it some 15, 15, 15 granules and now the leaves seem to be dying. All other crape myrtle have full blooms right now. It was about to bloom a bit, but the buds seem to have fallen off. I shouldn't need to trim it every year to get it to bloom. I was going to not fertilize that area at all next spring. Think that will get it to bloom? (Less nitrogen) thank you!

Lets verify that it is not a fungal problem called Cercospora first.

Cercospora can be common in crapemyrtles

Cercospora leaf spot is a very common fungal pathogen of crapemyrtle. In addition to the spots, symptoms typically include premature defoliation, starting on the lower branches and moving upwards; an…

www.newbernsj.com

If not fungal then I would try a seed starting mix or blooming mix with high P. Then I would replace it. What is good for grass with low P is not good for blooms. At this late date it would be next season before you know. Something like bone meal might get it done in a focused way over winter.

 

[Esther Knapicius]

Rarely you will see me type this. But this shrub/tree never been a favorite for me. don't have it, never will.