Crape Myrtle Emergence in Kansas City (Zone 5)

Dieback Shrub Behavior

In KC (zone 5), crape myrtles die to the ground each winter. Suckers from the base in late May are normal; the plant is alive. New growth appears late but grows rapidly in summer heat.

Pruning Protocol

• Wait for new growth to emerge (late May/early June).
• Remove all dead wood.
• Keep suckers—they are the new shrub.
• If old wood leafs out, prune dead tips only; otherwise, cut to ground in fall.

New cold-hardy cultivars may behave differently; observe for a season.