Question
lilac leaves
We have problems with our lilac tree. I live in Quebec, on the south shore of Montreal.
On one of our lilacs, the leaves have started to curve upwards and look somewhat dry. Not all of the tree is affected, just mostly the outside branches. On the affected branches, the bark has white splotches. We were told that it is possible due to the fertilizer we use on the lawn, is there any other possibility? There are no visible bugs or any other markings on the tree and the tree still blossomed, though the blossoms were less healthy looking than usual.
Thanks!
Juanita
AnswerJuanita:
I don't think that the splotches are related to the leaf curl unless they are a residue from something else. Suggest that you review any use of a herbicide (weed killer)in the vicinity over the last few weeks. Some weed killers that have certain growth regulator type chemicals in them can cause these type symptoms on the leaves. These leaves look like they got a "whiff" of some chemical that caused the distortion. This may have occurred by a spray misapplication or uptake through the roots.
Regards
Steve
