lilac

This classic plant family produces wonderfully fragrant panicles of white, pink, blue, and purple flowers in spring over dwarf mounding to tall oval habits. Some species bloom early, others middle, and late spring. Try planting different varieties to extend your blooming season, including repeat performers, (‘Bloomerang’). Lilacs make excellent backdrops in cutting and fragrance gardens, plant in mixed borders, foundations or hedges. Tree types work as great specimens in the landscape.

Plant in well-drained to moist, amended soil. Water well after planting; maintain 1” of water once a week the first year. Prune in spring immediately after flowering to control size, and remove stray shoots or damaged limbs anytime. Feed early spring and mid-summer with a slow release fertilizer. Follow label instructions. Mulch 2″ to suppress weeds, retain moisture and protect against extremes of soil temperature. Susceptible to Powdery Mildew; treat with Copper Fungicide as needed.