My lilac tree (20 year old) has an abundance of blooms but rather sparse with the leaves. Is there anything that I can do to help make it become bushier? Thank you.
Hi Liz, Thanks for your reply. It has been pruned and is in the sun. I can't believe all the gorgeous blooms. I pruned it in Dec/Jan and gave it some bonemeal. Should I feed it with something else?
Need to determine if there is, in fact am abnormality. If it remains gaunt or stunted through the growing season investigate possible problems at the root. I have noticed lilacs being mentioned as being prone to honey fungus (Armillaria). Other problems are possible as well. Down here the Cooperative Extension Service helps home gardeners figure out what is wrong with their plants, maybe their is a similar system you can avail yourself of there.
Lilacs I find like a open area with lots of air movement because they have a tendency to mold and fungus and also perfer an alkaline soil. A generous amount of lime in the fall should help this.
Thanks Liz, Ron and Greg, Actually, I have 2 lilac trees. They were already on the property when I bought my home. One is planted on the northwest side (front lawn) and the other is located in the backyard (southeast side) The one located on the NW side is almost bare with only a few leaves and blooms. It looks quite sparse. I think the reason for this is because when they moved my mobile home onto the lot in Dec and the movers had to pull it out to get the home on the lot. I just stuck it back in the ground and kept my fingers crossed. Anyway, it is still alive and shows signs of a few new leaves. The one in the back has lots of blooms (see pic) but seems to somewhat shy of leaves. Now, I did prune it lightly in Dec/Jan. I've noticed some new leaves. What kind of food/nutrients should I be giving it if any? It gets mostly morning and early pm sun, is nice and airy. I am planning to put some lime on my lawn in the fall so I'll sprinkle some around the tree as well. Other than lacking in leaves it looks quite healthy. I've posted a pic so you all will have a better idea. Thanks again for all your help. Oh yes, I'm aware that there are several kinds of lilac trees. Would anyone happen to know what kind this is?
Looks about like I expected. Check for pathogenic infestation, hopefully with assistance of local agency (analog to our Cooperative Extension). Nutrient deficiency may be possible but that wouldn't be the first area I would look at. Often decline or inadequacy of tree and shrub top growth signals a problem with the roots or trunk(s). As the roots go so goes the top, the roots run the show - if that part of the fort is under attack all the walls come down.
Darn it. Disappointing news. Okay, I will definitely get it checked out. The tree has been here for over 20 years and I rather liked it. Oh well, maybe I'll just have to dig it up and plant something new. Thanks again Ron.
