Knowledgebase

Japanese lilac tree dying #869525

Asked May 21, 2024, 6:53 PM EDT

I have a Japanese lilac tree that was here when I bought the house in 2021. This Spring, only about 1/3 of the tree sprouted leaves. I haven't done anything to it since I bought the house. Is there anything I can do to help save the tree or will it recover on its own?

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thanks for the question. It sounds like this tree has looked fine in the past (no powdery mildew or bacterial blight on the leaves) and now has not leafed out completely this spring. Most likely the tree is stressed and in decline due to the drought we have experienced the past few year. Be certain to give it a good soaking of water during dry periods and it will likely recover. If those branches don't leaf out in the next few weeks, any dead wood can be pruned out.

Paul

Tree Care Advisor volunteer

An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 21, 2024, 8:20 PM EDT
Thank you so much for the advice! 

On May 21, 2024 7:20 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied May 22, 2024, 12:18 AM EDT

Loading ...