Knowledgebase

Lilacs looking cripsy? #876934

Asked July 12, 2024, 9:12 AM EDT

Hello There! I live in the Minneapolis area and have noticed my lilacs have been looking unwell but I am not sure why, or what to do about it. This came on after they bloomed, they were looking quite well up until end of June. Does anyone have any ideas/suggestions? I love them dearly and hope I can help them. Please, and many thanks!

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

It appears your lilac may be experiencing either a response to previous years of drought or a bacterial blight. Bacterial blight can occur when there is lack of circulation and moist conditions. I would recommend removal of the branch areas with the declining leaves. Also take care to rake up fallen leaves and twigs and dispose of in the trash.  In your photos it does look like the branches are tight and could benefit from pruning to allow air flow throughout the tree. I have put a link below to leaf spot disease and a video that instructs on pruning. With clean up and pruning your lilac will likely be healthier in the future. 

Leaf Spot Diseases
https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/leaf-spot-diseases-trees-and-shrubs#leaf-spots-and-shoot-blight-or-canker-1156510
How to Prune a Lilac
https://video.maine.edu/media/How+to+Prune+a+Lilac+Bush/1_1w8x1rwv
Amy J. Extension Master Gardener - HC Replied July 14, 2024, 10:47 PM EDT

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