Lilacs

Lilacs are blue, white, pink, or lavender colored blooms that are incredibly aromatic.  What’s more, they are a favorite flower among gardeners because they are perennial plants that can sometimes live well over 90 years!  Thus, by planting lilacs, gardeners are receiving a life-long chance to view lilacs and their gorgeous blooms!

Lilacs owe their origins to areas in Asia and in Europe and there are well over 800 species of lilacs globally. Lilacs were introduced to North America in the mid 1700’s when colonists were flooding into New England and since then their popularity as a backyard favorite has spread. Lilacs are also a common plant found in both local and state parks.

Gardeners that choose to grow lilacs might have to maintain a bit of patience in terms of propagation if they plan to plant seeds.  When planting lilac seeds it can take well over five years before a gardener will see the plant produce any sort of bloom.  Conversely, if a gardener chooses to buy a plant already started from a local dealer, they may begin to see lilacs appear much sooner; thus, the latter of the two options is the most accepted.

After lilacs are planted and begin to bloom they require very little care.  In fact, lilacs prefer less water than many other plants and it would serve a gardener well to plant lilacs on a slope or any other elevated region that allows for adequate water drainage.  If a gardener decides to water lilacs, it should not be done more than once a week. Additionally, lilacs can be planted in a variety of soils as they adapt well in both clay and sand: this makes lilacs a highly adaptable plant in regions that other plants may not be as successful.

Lilacs call for adequate sunlight and proper pruning for successful growth.  Additionally, many gardeners will use various fertilizers to help their plants receive the proper amount of nutrients. Finally, in addition to the minimal routine care lilacs must receive, some lilacs may need to be treated for any diseases or insect problems they may develop.

Lilacs are fairly resilient to both disease and insects.  Further, any insect problem that might arise can be effectively handled with various insecticides.  Likewise, if a mildew problem should occur, it can be effectively handled with an adequate fungicide. 

Sadly, lilac blooms only last for about two weeks; thus their beauty is short-lived.  Furthermore, once the blooms have died off, it becomes necessary for a gardener to prune off any dead blossoms and extraneous branches.  In doing so, the gardener ensures another revisit of this unique bloom.

Finally, freshly cut lilacs are a wonderful addition to almost any room in a home.  If a gardener elects to harvest their lilacs they should purchase some floral nutrients specially designed for freshly cut flowers to help their harvested flowers maintain their longevity.  Finally, when trimming the lilacs from the bush, they should be trimmed off at an angle to provide minimal damage to the tree and the blossoms stems.