Q&A – The top branches of my crape myrtle have died back. What causes this and can I prune?

Question:
The top branches of my crape myrtle have died back. What causes this and can I prune?
​
Answer:
This is caused by freezing weather when the tree is not yet dormant or when it is coming out of dormancy. UT Extension Agent Chris Cooper explains that last winter there was an early frost and a very late frost. He says you can prune dead wood anytime. Prune the branches back to green tissue.

Related Videos:
Pruning (Not Murdering) Crape Myrtles
Will crape myrtle foliage come back after frost?

​Related Resources:
Crape Myrtle Culture
Crape Myrtle Pruning