Lilacs

LILACS

One of the most beautiful and fragrant bushes that open in late spring. 

They will reach a maximum height of 20-30' and a canopy of 15-20'.   There are also mini varieties which are just as breath taking.  They will attract bees and butterflies and are cold hardy and will grow in poor soils.   They are a low maintenance plant.

New bushes do not need to be pruned until they are about 6-8' in height.  Prune them after the flowers have faded, if you prune them late, you will sacrifice next years blooms.   Rule of thumb is to cut no more than 1/3 of the branch.   Trim out the "suckers" and and dead branches first.   Then lop off your height and create the shape you want.  When cutting back a stem which has blooms, I cut back to the first set of horizontal stems.

They are beautiful in simple arrangements and run the gamut from rustic to shabby chic to elegant.

Miniature Lilac bush