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Blight on lilac? #876671

Asked July 10, 2024, 1:05 PM EDT

I just noticed that one of my lilac bushes has brown spots on many of the leaves, and several leaves have turned complete brown and dry. It seems to be mostly affecting older growth (not much on this year's new growth, although there are some spots). I notice that other offshoots of this lilac nearby are also affected, but I have another lilac bush about 10 feet away that seems to be a different variety (smaller leaves, lighter purple-pink flowers) and it does not appear to be affected. I am attaching photos. Is this bacterial blight due to all of the rain this year? If so, what can I do to manage it?

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Good Morning Emma, 

Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service. 

This may be bacterial blight on your lilacs. Please click on the following link: 

https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/leaf-spot-diseases-trees-and-shrubs#bacterial-leaf-spots-and-blight-1156513

Please review this information under "Management". This could be due to the cool and wet weather we've been having. 

If you decide to do rejuvination pruning, here is another link: https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/pruning-trees-and-shrubs#hedges-and-shrubs-1336763

Good Luck!

Maureen Graber Replied July 11, 2024, 8:33 AM EDT

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