Question
Last year my American Lilac was healthy and vigorous. Now, it is completely dark brown and looks dead.  I have checked it all over and cannot see any sign of growth.  I am devastated! Do you have any idea what could have caused this?

Answer
Lorraine:
Unfortunately,there are many things that can cause a decline as you describe. Doing tree autopsies is a great challenge, often impossible to determine what the original cause was after the fact. One of the biggest issues is wounding of the bark.  The bark provides protection against many things including insects and diseases. By preventing wounds by lawnmowers and string trimmers- you can do a lot to encourage a vigorous growing tree.

Regards
Steve