Watering Newly Planted Crape Myrtles in Extreme Heat

20 newly planted multi-trunk crape myrtles (4-5 ft) show yellowing leaves in heat. Owner asks cause.

Water Deficit Diagnosis

Yellowing = insufficient water. New transplants need daily watering for weeks, then every 2-3 days. Large trees (>8 ft) need minutes per tree to soak root ball.

Reassurance

• Crape myrtles are tough—defoliate but releaf when watered.
• Few pests besides powdery mildew (white coating → treat with horticultural oil).
• Some yellowing normal in establishment.

Protocol

Water deeply daily for 2-3 weeks, then taper. Monitor for greening. They will recover.