gardening, garden design, flowering shrubs, perennials, weeds, retaining walls

Tips To Care For a Lilac Shrub

The lilac shrub can be a beautiful addition to any yard or garden. The lilac shrub is a unique type of plant because it is a mix between a shrub and a flower providing the yard or garden the best of both worlds. The lilac shrub adds depth to the garden while simultaneously adding a hint of color here and there. In order to preserve the lilac shrub that you have planted it is important that it receives the proper care.

One of the most important things to know about a lilac shrub is that is does not like to be in standing water for a long time. When you are planting the lilac shrub it is best to place it in a well-drained area. If the level ground does not drain well you can consider placing it in a place where the ground is slightly elevated. Since the lilac shrub does not like large amounts of water, it does not have to be watered frequently even in dry weather conditions.

Keeping weeds away from the lilac shrub will not only improve the look of the shrub, it will also keep the plant from being overcome with weeds. Avoid using weed killer products that contain nitrogen as this will have a negative effect on the lilac shrub’s ability to bloom.

Prune the lilac shrub about every five years in order to maintain the shape. The best time to prune a lilac shrub is in the spring before the flowers start to bloom. Avoid pruning in the fall or winter because this will destroy the lilac shrub’s chances to bloom the next spring. Some of the older branches on the bottom of the plant can be trimmed away if desired. A good rule of thumb to follow when pruning a lilac shrub is to never cut away more than a third of the plant.

As long as you give the proper care to the lilac shrub it will continue to thrive and grow. Your hard work will be rewarded with beautiful, sweet smelling blooms.

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