Question
I planted a new medium sized Lilac Bush in Hickory NC in June.  Later all the leaves turned a grayish brown (looked dried up), but it bloomed and appeared to be growing well..  What causes that?  Someone said that they got sunburnt..  Can that be????  Made one think the bush was dying, but it was watered well..

Answer
BJ:
Some ornamentals can get sunburned, especially if the leaves had previously developed under low light or shade conditions then suddenly were exposed to full/hot sunny conditions. I see this in my own landscape when I prune off too much growth. They call me the butcher in my neighborhood since I tend to over do the pruning job.  Your lilac should acclimate fine if it is being watered well and given some TLC during that critical time right after planting and then for about 3-4 months.  Many plants bite the dust because of that stressful period--it is called transplant shock. You can use your fingernail to scratch the bark off in a few small spots on a few branches.  Look for green beneath- that is a good sign it is doing well.  June is not the best time to plant ornamentals- often because it it so hot and dry.. Nov- Apr is usually a better time because the plant has slowed down a bit or is just starting to put on new growth.

Let me know if the plant looks to be doing well after you do the "scratch" test. Also, keep an eye out for Powdery Mildew. Lilacs can develope this leaf disease easily.

P.S. I really like that part of your state. I have been to places like Hendersonville,Asheville, and Crossnore. Maybe retire there one day!

Steve