Recommended 'de-bugger' for Lilac tree

[DianeH]

My lilac tree has been getting eaten each year by a nasty bug. I've tried Trounce and several other bug killers without much success. My poor tree is looking so shrivelled and unhealthy. Can anyone suggest an alternative?

Thanks

 

[MULTIZ321]

Dianne,

Here is a link for Insecticide Suggestions to Manage Landscape Tree and Shrub Insects


Richard

 

[DonM]

In the States we have the Cooperative extention service which is an agricultural service to farmers and homeowners. I believe it is federally funded and serviced by each state. They have websites that may help you as well. Maybe you have something similar in Canada?

I'm no expert, but I think generally speaking an insect will not make the shrub "shrivel" unless it's attacking the root system. Usually bugs eat leaves and put holes in them, or make them disappear- but shriveled leaves in general would indicate to me a problem with absorportion or a herbicide etc. An exception might be some sort of borer.

Maybe you have two different things going on?

Usually syringa (Lilacs) are pretty hardy.

Good Luck
Don

 

[DianeH]

Thanks for the replies Richard and Don. I'll check out the link. Don, the leaves are shrivelling, kindof brown at the ends. Its definately bug related. I found some Malathon in the shed and sprayed it yesterday so we'll see what happens.

Diane

 

[DeniseM]

We like the systemic products made by Bayer - you mix it with water and water the plant with it. We use Bayer 3-in-1 for bugs, mold, and fertilizer. During the growing season, I use it every 4 to 6 weeks on my roses and small shrubs. It works best if you start it early, before problems develop, but if you are playing catch-up, then you will probably have to use it every 4 weeks. I like it because it is a lot less messy than sprays, doesn't have to be used as often, and seems to work better too.

 

[DonM]

Its definately bug related.

Can you see the insects?

 

[DianeH]

Yes Don, I have seen a variety of insects...spiders (light coloured), snails (not considered insects, I know), tiny worms, something that flies, and in the end of the curled and shrivelled leaves, a white web that is housing who-knows-what.

I've sprayed Malathon so we'll see what happens.....

 

[RDB]

I know you are far from Ohio, but check
http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2012.html

 

[Don]

Besides the snails/slugs, here's my guess as to what you saw. Spidermites, nemotodes, and white flies. there are small spiders taking advantage of the hiding place provided by the curled leaves. Snail /slug bait will solve that problem. The others should be solved by a good systemic insecticide. Use it as both a spray and watering. It will be absorbed by the plant and the sap will become poisonous to the little sapsuckers, killing those that slipped past the spraying. Unlike Denise, I am not impressed by Bayer liquid insecticide. I prefer Ortho and Spectra products, especially Spectra Triazide.

 

[DianeH]

Hi
I've tried the sprays and the poor tree is still sad looking. I'm going to try the slug and snail bait now. I thought it best to give on thing a try first to see what works.

Thanks
Diane