When to Give Up on a 15-Year Lilac with No Spring Growth

Signs of Death in Toronto Lilac

15+ year fragrant violet lilac in Toronto shows no leaf growth by June despite heavy watering and Miracle-Gro. Dry summer/winter prior.

Diagnostic Checks

• Bend branches: snap = dead.
• Check trunk for lilac borer exit holes.

Verdict

If no growth by now, it's dead. Wait 1–2 more weeks. If borers present, don't replant lilac—choose resistant species.