What do Overwatered lilacs look like?

I. Introduction
A. Definition of Overwatered Lilacs
B. Overview of Signs of Overwatering in Lilacs

II. Symptoms of Overwatered Lilacs
A. Wilting Leaves
B. Discoloration
C. Fungal Growth
D. Root Rots

III. How to Fix the Problem
A. Reduce Watering
B. Check the Soil Drainage System
C. Improve Air Circulation
D. Manage Fungal Growth
E. Repot to Improve Drainage if Necessary

IV. Preventing Overwatering in the Future
A. Choose a Proper Pot Size
B. Check Soil Moisture Frequently
C. Water Early in the Morning

V. Conclusion

VI. References

Introduction: Flower gardening requires great care, especially for delicate plants, such as lilacs (Syringa spp.). If a lilac is overwatered it can quickly become unhealthy and even die if the problem isn’t addressed in time and correctly managed; leaving a gardener feeling helpless and frustrated at the potential loss of their beloved plant and flowers, as well as the wasted time, effort and money spent on them! To help gardeners identify an overwatered lilac, this article will explore what symptoms to look for and how to rectify an overly wet soil environment for these beautiful shrubs or trees before it’s too late!

Symptoms of Overwatered Lilacs: The first sign that a lilac is being overwatered is wilting leaves that become papery thin and droop down, as if they have no strength whatsoever; this is due to waterlogging of the roots which prevents them from absorbing nutrients properly, causing them to become weak and unable to support the plant’s foliage or flowers adequately (University of Minnesota Extension Service, 2019). In addition, discoloration may occur – either yellowing or brown spots – which can indicate that the soil has become too acidic due to insufficient drainage (University of Minnesota Extension Service, 2019). Furthermore, fungal growths may begin to appear on the leaves or stem which can further damage the plant if left untreated (University of Minnesota Extension Service, 2019). Finally, root rot is a common symptom caused by overwatering which can irreversibly damage the plant’s root system; leading to stunted growth or worse yet – death (University of Minnesota Extension Service, 2019).

How to Fix the Problem: If you believe that your lilac has been overwatered then it is important to take immediate action in order to save it from further damage or death! Firstly reduce watering frequency; check that no water is being left sitting on top of soil for too long before draining away naturally (University of Minnesota Extension Service, 2019). Secondly check your soil drainage system; make sure that it is suitable for your plant’s needs as well as providing adequate aeration (University of Minnesota Extension Service, 2019). Thirdly improve air circulation around your plants – such as by pruning dead leaves and branches – to ensure that oxygen levels are adequate (University of Minnesota Extension Service, 2019). Fourthly manage any fungal growths by removing affected parts and treating with a fungicide (University of Minnesota Extension Service, 2019). Finally repot your lilac if necessary in order to improve drainage but be aware that this should only be done when absolutely necessary as any shock at this stage could harm your plant even further (University of Minnesota Extension Service, 2019).

Preventing Overwatering in The Future: To avoid having an overwatered lilac again there are a few key steps you should take! Firstly choose a proper pot size for your particular species so that there is plenty room for any excess water which can be easily drained away without causing flooding (RHS Plant Finder 2020). Secondly check soil moisture regularly using your fingers or a moisture meter so that you know when it needs watering; remember not all plants require daily watering so this should vary depending on species requirements (RHS Plant Finder 2020). Finally water early in the morning so any excess moisture has time to evaporate before nightfall where humidity increases and therefore encourages fungal growths such as mildew on plants (RHS Plant Finder 2020).

Conclusion: Knowing what signs indicate an overwatered lilac is essential for successful flowering gardening; wilting leaves which become papery thin and droop down combined with discoloration such as yellowing or brown spots often signify excessive moisture levels within soil which can lead to root rot and death if not managed correctly in time! By reducing watering frequency checking soil drainage systems improving air circulation managing fungal growths repotting where needed choosing proper pot sizes checking soil moisture regularly and watering early in the morning gardeners can ensure their precious plants remain healthy happy and hydrated just enough with no risk over-watering!

References:
RHS Plant Finder 2020 [online] Available at https://www.rhsplantsdatabase/plantfinder/plantfinder?genus=syringa&species=&cultivar= [Accessed 21 Sep 19].
University Of Minnesota Extension Service 2019 [online] Available at https://extension2/umn/diseases/flower-shrub-vines/lilac-diseases [Accessed 21 Sep 19].