What is wrong with my Japanese Lilac tree?

Question

I live in Western Wisconsin and have a Japanese Lilac tree. I have had it for about 8 years now and within the last week or so some of the leaves are turning dark brown starting at the tip and drying up, and some of the leaves are curling. It is too early for the normal fall turn and I have never seen it look like this. It looks diseased to me and I am very concerned. Anyone know what it might be and what I can do about it?

Answer 1

I am in western WI as well. We have been having all sorts of fun dealing with fungal diseases this year. They are hitting plants which are normally immune to attack. If you have been watering at all, my guess is that your tree has a disease of some sorts. About the best thing to do would be contact a landscaping company that offerers tree and shrub care, they can diagnose what the exact problem is and treat it accordingly.

Answer 2

Well, I don't know how the rain has been for you in your specific area, but in general, Wisconsin has been dry.  July had about 25% of the normal rain.  If you hadn't gotten much rain in August - the lack of rain alone can cause trees to brown early.

The symptoms you describe sure sound like a root problem to me.  (Most likely lack of water)

When a tree is severely thirsty, it will "dump" its leaves to save itself, as there is a lot of water loss through the leaves.

If you think that may be the issue, and the branch tips are still flexible, then put an open-ended hose on the root ball - just lay it down there - turn it on to a trickle, about the size of a pen, and let it go for about an hour.  The leaves that have browned won't turn green again, but you can save the rest of the tree.