Lilacs re-blooming in October? - Ask Extension
I live in the Twin Cities. Today I noticed that my lilac bushes are starting to bloom again and growing new leaves as though it’s spring. I’m seei...
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Lilacs re-blooming in October? #728460
Asked October 02, 2020, 6:30 PM EDT
I live in the Twin Cities. Today I noticed that my lilac bushes are starting to bloom again and growing new leaves as though it’s spring. I’m seeing this in at least 2 of the bushes I have. Why is this happening? Will they bloom again in the spring? Are they at risk of dying? They have never done this before.
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
1. A few late summer and early fall blooms on common lilac bushes (Syringa vulgaris) occurs after a stressful summer conditions are followed by milder weather. There are also a few varieties of lilacs like Bloomerang (Syringa 'Penda') that are reblooming.
2. Many common lilacs in MN wilted and lost their leaves this summer. The fungal disease Lilac Pseudocercospora leaf spot may to be present. Symptoms are the same as reported (yellowing then browning leaves, dieback). Clean up fallen leaves to help reduce the likelihood of reinfection next season. The next site may help you diagnose why your lilacs lost their leaves this summer.
The following sites will help you care for your lilacs.
