Lilacs dying - Ask Extension
Sections of my lilacs are dying. Within the last 3 weeks sections have had the leaves turn brown and dry up. The lilacs are the purple kind and have b...
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Lilacs dying #709067
Asked August 03, 2020, 4:44 PM EDT
Sections of my lilacs are dying. Within the last 3 weeks sections have had the leaves turn brown and dry up. The lilacs are the purple kind and have been in the yard and the edges of the windbreak since before I moved here in 1980. They have not exhibted this behavior before.
Thank you
Stearns County Minnesota
Expert Response
A few photos would be helpful.
We've been hearing about problems on lilacs this year from a number of people, which sound similar to what you are seeing. If you've ruled out herbicide drift, consider bacterial blight. Check here:
You'd have to get a lab test done to verify:
Some Master Gardeners are having their lilacs checked at the Plant Disease Clinic, so we may know more in a week or two.
Here a few pictures of the dying lilacs.
Thank you
My money would be on bacterial blight. Compare here:
But you should get it tested at the plant disease clinic. As I said, this has been widespread this year.
I read the items you sent and looked at the picture. This looks exactly like the leaves on my lilacs. I believe you are correct. I will be doing some extensive pruning in the next few days.
Thank you
