Description
Densely flowering 4-6 ft. shrubs produce an explosion of fragrant deep lavender-purple flowers in spring, and a steady show of blooms right up till frost. Exceptionally hardy reblooming lilac, arrayed with large, rounded, rich-purple inflorescences, makes the perfect landscape plant, attracting frequent butterfly visitors. Deer-resistant, easily managed shrubs prefer sunny locations with moist, well-drained soil.
How to Grow
Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their germination.
Mulches also help retain soil moisture and maintain even soil temperatures. For perennials, an organic mulch of aged bark or shredded leaves lends a natural look to the bed and will improve the soil as it breaks down in time. Always keep mulches off a plant’s stems to prevent possible rot.
Careful watering is essential in getting perennials off to a good start. Water thoroughly at least once a week to help new roots grow down deeply. Soil should be damp at about 1 inch below the soil surface. You can check this by sticking your finger in the soil. Water early in the morning to give all leaves enough time to dry. One inch of rain or watering per week is recommended for most perennial plants. You can check to see if you need to add water by using a rain gauge.
Until plants become established, some protection from extreme winds and direct, hot sunlight may be necessary. Good air movement is also important.
After new growth appears, a light fertilizer may be applied. Keep granular fertilizers away from the plant crown and foliage to avoid burn injury. Use low rates of a slow release fertilizer, as higher rates may encourage root rots.
“Deadhead”, remove spent flower heads to encourage continuous flowering and prevent seed development.
Prune to rejuvenate after blooming in spring. Cut plants to the base and they will grow back during the season.
Tips
Only prune plants within six weeks of flowering do avoid damaging the next flowering period.
Thin out old weak stems that are not flowering freely.
Lilac prefers a neutral soil.
Cut flowers are deliciously fragrant.
