Lilac tree growth?

Question: I have a lilac tree that is over 30 years old, but I’d really like to save.  I hope you can help me out With what I can do to solve this problem. It has a white growth on the trunk in branches. It also looks like the bark is splitting and peeling in spots. I hope this doesn’t mean the tree is dying. I started this question before but apparently uploaded too many pictures so I had to cancel and start over so I am hoping to send less pictures this time and it will work..  thank you for your help.

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 19, 2024, 7:07 PM EDT
response: Hello,  I identified this tree as a Common Lilac (Syringa vulgaris). The presence of lichens on your Common Lilac (Syringa vulgaris) tree is typically not harmful; lichens are often found on older trees and do not cause diseases. However, the splitting and peeling of bark could indicate environmental stress or a disease issue.  Here are some steps you can take to help your lilac tree:  Pruning: Regular pruning can help increase airflow and reduce the potential for disease. It’s best to prune lilacs shortly after they have flowered.   Sunlight and Air Circulation: Ensure that your lilac is planted in a sunny location with good air circulation, as this can help limit disease issues.  Fungicides: If a fungal disease like powdery mildew is present, several fungicides are available for treatment. They must be applied at the first sign of disease, and repeat applications may be necessary according to the product label instructions. In your images, I did not see powdery mildew on the leaves of the lilac tree. Don't apply a fungicide until you hear from MSU Plant and Pest Lab Cultivars: Planting resistant cultivars can also help avoid problems with diseases like powdery mildew. Some reliable choices are ‘Charles Joly’, ‘Sensation’, and ‘Old Glory’.  If the bark issues persist, it might be worth consulting a local arborist or the MSU Plant and Pest Lab for a more precise diagnosis and treatment plan. They can provide specific advice based on a detailed examination of your tree. Remember to clean up any plant debris, such as fallen leaves, to reduce the chance of disease overwintering and affecting the tree next season  OPTION 1:  For a confirmed and precise identification of the problem, I recommend you send all your images by e-mail to the MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab. The experts there can also provide you with the best treatment options. Their email is <personal data hidden>. Please include your name. The lab will let you know if they need a sample sent. FYI, the lab may also ask for additional images.   Their website is at this link:   Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)  Their Contact Information is at this link:  Contact Us - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)  This link will explain the details of submitting a sample to MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab:  Submit Samples - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)  OPTION 2:  You can consult a local certified arborist for a more detailed onsite assessment and personalized advice. To find a certified arborist in your Zip Code, go to this link:   Find an Arborist (treesaregood.org)  I hope this helps!

responder: The Question Asker Replied July 29, 2024, 11:22 AM EDT
response: I just want to apologize.  I have been looking for this email but never thought to look in my spam folder.  I just found this so I just want to say how grateful I am for your help.  I can't afford much so I really appreciate your advice on helping to save my tree.
I will definitely follow all your advice.
Sincere Thanks,
Audrey Witkowski






On Friday, July 19, 2024 at 07:07:26 PM EDT, Ask Extension <ask> wrote:</ask>