Question
Hello-
I need some help figuring out what might be wrong with my lilac shrub. I planted 2 shrubs this spring, one is doing great and the other not so good. The lilac leaves are turning yellow or light green and the tip of the leaves are turning brown. The leaves look wilted. I have added some garden lime several weeks ago and yesterday I added some bone meal. I know its not a drainage issue. Maybe lack of soil nutrients? Both lilacs are planted in the same area of our yard and are about 5ft from eachother with plenty of sun.

Thanks for your help!
Barb

Answer
Barb:
The symptoms that you describe are likely related to a soil/root issue. A nutrient or soil moisture imbalance could cause this. Consider having your soil tested for pH and nutrient availability. If the pH is off a bit, some nutrients may be in the soil, but not able to be picked up by the plant, so pH is important too.  Contact your garden center/nursery about these services. Another excellent source is your local county Agricultural Extension Service. Very often than not, a soil test is free through this agency.  There is an office in each county. If you have trouble finding a telephone number in the phone book for your county office, let me know your state and county of residence and I can look up a # for you to call.

Also, be sure that the shrub is getting sufficient water, especially if it is hot/dry or windy like it is here in my part of the world.  Sometimes there can be a difference as close as 5 ft. A nutrient thing would be my first guess, having not seen the shrub. Usually if it is becoming too dry, the leaves often start to brown around the edges first, then proceed inward and this usually happens most all over the plant.

A remote possibility is that there may be some damage to the bark tissues. So, a good idea is to take a look at the trunk area up to one foot above the ground.  Look for areas where the bark may have been removed or loose in this area starting at the ground line.  Lawn mowers and string trimmers can ruin your best efforts instantaneously.

Regards
Steve