Can crepe myrtle grow in a protected area of western ny?

Crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) is a deciduous flowering tree native to China, India, Japan and Korea. It is widely grown as an ornamental tree in warmer climates, but it may not be suitable for growing outdoors in western New York due to the cold climate. USDA hardiness zones 7-9 are ideal for crape myrtle trees, while western New York falls in USDA hardiness zone 6, where the average lowest winter temperatures range from -10 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit.

However, if you can offer a protected location for the crepe myrtle, such as in a sheltered corner of your yard or near the south-facing side of your house, it may have a chance of surviving the winter. Additionally, you can apply mulch around the base of the tree to help insulate the roots and protect them from freezing.

It's important to monitor the weather forecast during winter and provide extra protection if temperatures are expected to drop below -10 degrees Fahrenheit, such as wrapping the tree in burlap or using a plant blanket.