Crepe Myrtle Spring Freeze Damage: Fertilize, Delay Pruning, Assess Survival

Crepe myrtles in Georgia hit by late freeze after early pruning: the new growth was tender and froze. Don't prune again yet—wait for resprouting (usually from lower buds). The plants aren't dead; crepe myrtles are root-hardy to zone 6.

Fertilize now with balanced formula to fuel regrowth. Water consistently. In 4-6 weeks, you'll see what's alive. Then prune only dead tips and crossing branches.

Lesson: delay spring pruning until after last average freeze date. Early pruning stimulates growth vulnerable to frost.