My Lilac Tree Has Developed Brown Spots On The Leaves. Then The Spotted Leaves Curl Up And Dry Out. No Powdery Mildew Noticed On L

Question

eaves? What should I do to care for the tree? What caused the damage to the leaves? Do I need to treat the tree with something? Should I trim off the spotted leaves? I do not know the tree’s history because we just moved into the home this spring. The tree continues to have new foliage growing on branches. Should this new foliage be trimmed? I have been shaping the tree with a hedge trimmer once a week to keep the round shape – it that hurting the tree? Previous home owners shaped the tree too (seen from Realtor pictures when house was listed for sale). Our soil is black with clay so it holds water after being watered. Should I water the tree more? The tree was been watered well once a week (via hose or rain). Thank you for any advice you can give. I’m a new gardner since I received well established trees, shrubs, and perineal flower beds with our home purchase. I’m trying to learn quickly how to take care of the plants so they continue to grow for many years to come. Thanks, Robina

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Answer 1

These are infected with a blight. Likely from overly saturated soils. It is very important to let the soil dry out, very thoroughly, down to 3 or 4 inches between watering. This will not be on a schedule, so you should check the soil before watering, or not water at all. Rainfall will be enough in most areas to keep them healthy.

Here are some articles that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-moisture-in-plants.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/test-soil-for-pests-and-diseases.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/what-are-microbes-in-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/fungus-lichen/mycorrhizal-fungi-information.htm