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Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?

A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.

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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

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Please forgive us, but Mr. Smarty Plants has been overwhelmed by a flood of mail and must take a break for awhile to catch up. We hope to be accepting new questions again soon. Thank you!

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Wednesday - August 01, 2012

From: Noblesville, IN
Region: Midwest
Topic: Non-Natives, Trees
Title: Non-native crape myrtles in Noblesville IN
Answered by: Barbara Medford

QUESTION:

Can Crepe Myrtle trees be grown in Noblesville IN 46060? I believe we are zone five.

ANSWER:

You are correct. Bruce County, right at the center of Indiana, is considered in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. Crepe myrtles, which originate in China and are therefore out of Mr. Smarty Plants' realm of expertise, are considered safe in Zones 7 to 9. There is nothing to keep you from experimenting, but it could be a waste of time and money.

 

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