Can I Prune Very Old Lilacs That Look Like They Are Dying?

Question

I have a privacy wall of old lilacs that are now only blooming at the tops, and the middles and bottoms are all dead looking branches. Is there a way to prune them and have them regrow without completely killing them? If so, what time of year do I do it and how low do I take them?

Answer 1

It may help to do a rejuvenation pruning. If you aren't in a hurry, you can do it over a few years by removing one-third of the oldest canes each year. Here is more:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/lilac/pruning-lilac-bushes-when-to-trim-lilac-bushes.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/shgen/rejuvenation-pruning-tips.htm