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Top Questions About Lilac Bushes

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Questions About Lilac Bushes

  • Answered by
    Nikki on
    August 7, 2012
    Certified Expert
    A.

    Yes, you can trim it. However, I would not prune it back by more than 1/3 in any one year. Cutting it back further than that could harm the plant. This article should help with that: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/lilac/pruning-lilac-bushes-when-to-trim-lilac-bushes.htm

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  • Answered by
    JenJM on
    August 6, 2012
    A.

    I trim mine back every year. I wouldn't get too severe, but cutting it back actually is good for it. It promotes new growth which will promote more blossoms.

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  • Answered by
    wdbeale on
    August 6, 2012
    A.

    I can't kill mine. I have trimed it to the soil level. It apparently produces suckers and I plan to dig up the roots to get rid of the plant.

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  • Answered by
    Heather on
    September 14, 2012
    Certified Expert
    A.

    It sounds like you have a fungus on the plant. Treat it with a fungicide.

    It may also be a watering issue. Check to make sure the plant is getting enough water.

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  • Answered by
    Nikki on
    September 24, 2012
    Certified Expert
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  • Answered by
    Nikki on
    September 24, 2012
    Certified Expert
    A.

    It is not too cold for watering, though the plant does not require as much now that the temps are getting cooler and dormancy nears. You will only need to water when the soil gets particularly dry.

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  • Answered by
    Nikki on
    September 24, 2012
    Certified Expert
    A.

    This is likely a fungus of some sort. Treat the plant with fungicide. The new growth should be ok, so go ahead and take some cuttings if you would like. This article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/how-to-root-cuttings-from-various-shrubs-bushes-and-trees.htm

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  • Answered by
    Nikki on
    October 2, 2012
    Certified Expert
    A.

    Most transplanting takes place in either spring or fall (but preferably fall). If you can ensure that the majority of the roots and surrounding soil is lifted and replanted in suitable growing conditions, you'll have a greater chance of success. To reduce shock, trimming may help. Here is an article that you may find helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/learn-how-to-avoid-and-repair-transplant-shock-in-plants.htm

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  • Answered by
    Nikki on
    October 15, 2012
    Certified Expert
    A.

    Yes, the cold may cause damage. When you are expecting a mild freeze, I would recommend covering the plant with a bedsheet. This should be enough to keep the frost from settling on the buds. If you can, a few jugs of hot water placed under the sheets as well will also keep the air a bit warmer under there.

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