Knowledgebase

Struggling Korean Lilac tree #454237

Asked May 15, 2018, 3:17 PM EDT

Hello! I have a dwarf Korean lilac tree that is struggling - it is well behind my dwarf Korean lilac shrubs in leafing out, and portions of the tree appear to be dead. It was planted in 2008. It receives well over 12 hours of sun a day and has been very healthy until about three years ago, when I noticed quite a bit of dead branches, which I then trimmed from the tree. There appear to be no pest or fungal issues. I'm currently waiting for the portions of my tree that aren't dead (green on the inside when I snap twigs) to leaf out, but I'm afraid that the tree might be dying and past the point of rescue. Have other folks had this issue with their Dwarf Korean lilac trees? Thank you!

Anoka County Minnesota

Expert Response

Sorry, but it's too hard to diagnose what is ailing the tree on the basis of a few photos. I suggest you contact a certified arborist to give an opinion.
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist/findanarborist

Here is my take, based on the pics. There are many poor pruning cuts. There is weak branching architecture: multiple branches from a single point. Some cuts have left stubs. Badly pruned trees can leave a pathway for decay organisms to enter the tree. It also appears to be topped, which is never a good idea for a tree. I personally don't think it is worth saving this tree.

Read here about pruning trees:
https://www.extension.umn.edu/garden/yard-garden/trees-shrubs/pruning-trees-shrubs/



Dennis in St. Louis Park Replied May 17, 2018, 4:07 PM EDT

Loading ...