Q.New Lilac Tree Leaves Damaged
I planted a lilac tree last November. It has plenty of buds but when they turn into leaves, they become dry with holes in them and eventually the leaves die.
Without a photo, it's hard for me to say what is happening but I can help you narrow it down a little. My best guess would be that your lilac has bacterial blight. Barring that, it could be a leaf spot disease or maybe even lilac leaf miners (any signs of insects?). All of these possibilities are discussed in the following article: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/lilac/common-lilac-problems.htm
An extension article on lilac bacterial blight:
http://extension.oregonstate.edu/gardening/how-recognize-treat-and-avoid-lilac-bacterial-blight
An extension article on leaf spot diseases:
http://www.extension.umn.edu/garden/yard-garden/trees-shrubs/management-of-leaf-spot-diseases/
