Lilac declining health - Ask Extension
This has been a healthy lilac grove
It has been on the property for over 30 years
Recently pruned,about two weeks ago and this one clump seems to be s...
Knowledgebase
Lilac declining health #460700
Asked June 08, 2018, 12:20 PM EDT
This has been a healthy lilac grove
It has been on the property for over 30 years
Recently pruned,about two weeks ago and this one clump seems to be suffering.
The rest of the group's seem just fine.
Noticed this clump today and it has a powdery look and some wilting
Some of the leaves have curled and noticed this insect.
What is it
And what do we do
Can we save this
Or best to remove to prevent spreading
Thank you!
Harford County Maryland
Expert Response
The insect looks like a katydid and is not causing damage.
The leaves on the lilac looks like they have been affected by powdery mildew and bacterial blight. The old fashioned Lilacs can be susceptible to these fungal and bacterial diseases which can be common in the spring during rainy wet weather and warm days followed by cool humid nights. Here is more information on on our website
http://extension.umd.edu/hgic/powdery-mildew-trees-and-shrubs
http://extension.umd.edu/learn/bacterial-blights-lilac
Control begins by selecting powdery mildew resistant varieties. There are different species of lilacs and the reblooming lilacs (Bloomerang series) that are resistant. Make sure the plants are in full sun with adequate air circulation to reduce humidity levels. Pruning for better air circulation may help.
mh
The leaves on the lilac looks like they have been affected by powdery mildew and bacterial blight. The old fashioned Lilacs can be susceptible to these fungal and bacterial diseases which can be common in the spring during rainy wet weather and warm days followed by cool humid nights. Here is more information on on our website
http://extension.umd.edu/hgic/powdery-mildew-trees-and-shrubs
http://extension.umd.edu/learn/bacterial-blights-lilac
Control begins by selecting powdery mildew resistant varieties. There are different species of lilacs and the reblooming lilacs (Bloomerang series) that are resistant. Make sure the plants are in full sun with adequate air circulation to reduce humidity levels. Pruning for better air circulation may help.
mh
