Question
I have a 15+ year fragrant violet lilac bush in Toronto, Ontario which this year has not started to show leaf growth. I thought the problem had to do with the dry summer and winter that we had, so I have been extensively watering it. Even added some miracle gro. However, the bush looks barren and I fear it may be dead.  Do you have any suggestions to try to stimulate growth.

Answer
Jacob,
It sounds like the lilac has indeed passed on. If it has not shown any indications of blooming by now, I think it never will. Chack the branches, do they snap when you bend them or do they still have some strength? Check the trunk of the bush, are there exit holes from lilac borer?
Give the plant another week or two, then I would have to recommend removal and replacement. If there were borers, I would not recommend planting another lilac.
Good luck.
Ed Gulliksen