Rough Draft 1.0 10/6/2020
Intro
Lilac blooms are one of the most fragrant flowers we’ve grown. To me the fragrance is sweet and pleasing. I love it when our purple blooms pop because that’s when we clean up the dead blooms from the previous year to enjoy more growth for years to come. One point of interest is that the lilac bush is a member of the olive family. If you live in a cold climate lilacs have been known as the most fragrant flowers available to avid gardeners or anyone who wants to grow a lilac bush. Many professional gardeners have claimed that the scent of Syringa blossoms is one of the most unforgettable aromas of the plant world. By the way there is no difference between a lilac tree or a lilac bush, They are the same plant just called by different names.
How to Grow Lilac Bushes
Pick a spot for your lilac that provides full sun for at least 6 hours and then partial sun. My lilac bush is nestled between two large evergreen trees. It definitely receives partial sun most of the time except during the hot summer afternoons where the full sun is shining, With these conditions I have had blooms year after year.
- Soil – Any soil type is fine for your lilac bush to grow. This absolute best is if the PH is neutral to slightly alkaline. Tip – work your soil to make sure it is well draining soil. Lilacs roots don’t like to sit in water. They will also not bloom with too much water.
- Water – When the top inch of soil becomes dry that is the right time to water a lilac, usually once or twice per week. It may need more water during the hot summer months. to make sure you’re giving each lilac plant enough moisture. (Leaves will begin to droop if the plant is getting too dry.)
Propagating and Pruning
Propagate a new plant
Most lilacs, especially the common lilacs are clump forming plants that spread through new growth of shoots. To propagate a new plant is pretty straight forward. Simply dig down around one of the shoots and remove it from the main plant including the roots. Don’t worry you will not hurt or harm the main plant doing this. For best results when replanting your new shoot use beneficial soil and water daily until it is established.
Pruning is critical
A lilac bush left with out pruning can grow to about 20’ tall. The appropriate time to prune is in the spring. This is because next season’s flower buds form in the spring for the upcoming year.. Remember fall pruning will mean no flowers next year.
If you’re looking for a butterfly flower garden a lilac bush is a must. Lilacs have the most delightful sweet scent. They’re the first flowers I cut in the spring. My favorite is to place them in a vase in my kitchen and let the wonderful spring aroma fill the room. Seriously, who doesn’t love a lilac bush?
Resource Links