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Lilac Care #946820

Asked October 09, 2026, 1:49 PM EDT

My lilacs always have brown, ugly looking leaves. What should I do to make them healthy? Thanks!

Dakota County Minnesota

Expert Response

More detail is needed to answer the question. Are the shrubs being watered? Do they receive enough sunlight? Are there disease symptoms? How long have the leaves been brown? Is there any green just under the surface of the bark on the stems? See this web page which may help you determine the problem.
https://extension.umn.edu/garden-and-home/yard-and-garden/lawns-and-landscapes-in-minnesota/trees-and-shrubs/lilacs
A soil test may be helpful also. https://soiltest.cfans.umn.edu/

Linda G Tenneson, Benton County Extension Master Gardener & Tree Care Advisor Replied October 09, 2026, 5:02 PM EDT

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