If you’re a crepe myrtle fan, you already know about the genus’s fantastic seasonal beauty and ease of care. Unfortunately, the common diseases of crepe myrtle trees are also quite varied. Once these pests or diseases creep into your ornamental tree, it will lose that attractiveness you love, so it’s good to be vigilant.
As your trusted provider of tree services in Arlington, VA, The Heart Of Wood Tree Service outlines some conditions to watch out for below.
What Is a Crepe Myrtle?
The Lagerstroemia genus, colloquially known as a crepe or crape myrtle, consists of an impressive 50-plus species. They’re usually ornamental trees or shrubs because of their delicate, crepe-inspired flowers that bloom in late summer and early autumn.
Your crepe myrtle might grow to a modest size. However, overall, it should be a low-maintenance member of your tree collection unless an opportunistic pest or disease arrives on the scene.
Common Diseases of Crepe Myrtle Trees and Pests To Watch For
Many popular crepe myrtle species have disease-resistant qualities, so it’s a good choice for a long-lived decorative feature on your commercial or residential property. Preventing these pests and diseases can help you avoid crape myrtle problems:
#1 Cercospora Leaf Spot
A Cercospora Leaf Spot appears when Cercospora fungal spores overtake a woody plant. It manifests as yellow or red spots overtaking the leaves. As the spots grow, their centers turn brown with a yellowish ring around them.
Poor pruning practices and excessive watering can cause this problem.
#2 Powdery Mildew
Arlington, Virginia, has a hot, humid climate, so watch out for powdery mildew on crepe myrtle trees during spring and summer. This is among the more common diseases of crepe myrtle trees and other woody plants.
You’ll notice a white, dusty film on the leaves, unhealthy flowers, and slow growth.
#3 Crepe Myrtle Bark Scale
Scale insects are literally tree vampires. These sucking insects can overtake many plant species.
The insects attach themselves to the bark, forming a hardened, waxy shell that protects them as they feed on their host’s juices. They gradually suck the life from the plant.
#4 Crepe Myrtle Aphids
Speaking of vampiric, crepe myrtle diseases and pests include aphids, which survive much like scale insects. These insects come in many varieties, including the crepe myrtle aphid. They specifically target leaves and flowers.
You might notice tiny yellow spots where these insects pierce the tissues. Young or recently transplanted trees may fail to thrive because of the stress these parasitic bugs can cause.
#5 Anthracnose
Arlington, Virginia’s cool early springs and late autumns can introduce numerous crepe myrtle fungal issues. The cool temperatures, damp environment, and cloud coverage are a perfect combination for anthracnose.
These fungal infections overtake soft tissues like flowers, new twigs, and leaves. It makes the foliage look crumpled and mottled in brown.
The Heart Of Wood Tree Service Offers Quality Crepe Myrtle Care in Arlington, Virginia
These are the most common diseases of crepe myrtle trees, and The Heart Of Wood Tree Service knows of many others, too. Luckily, we’re experts in preventing tree diseases, so call 571-482-0996 to request a free estimate in Arlington, Virginia!