Plant Care Guidelines

Adaptation:
Zones 3 through 7. To determine your zone, see the map in
Plant Climate Zone Map. Generally not adapted to warm climates, but some species grow in zones 8 through 10.

Flowering Time:
May or June.

Light:
Full sun.

Soil:
Any good garden soil high in organic matter with a neutral pH (approximately 6.5 to 7.5). For more information about pH, see pH.

Fertilizer:
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer according to label directions. Add lime to acid soils (pH 4.5 to 5.5). For more information about adding lime to the soil, see Apply Limestone to Raise pH.

Water:
How much: Apply enough water to wet the soil 2 to 3 feet deep. To determine the proper amount of water for your soil type, see How Much Water to Apply.

How often: Water when the soil is barely moist 4 inches below the surface. For more information about watering, see About Watering.

Pruning:
To shape young plants, pinch off growing tips. Remove dead flowers immediately after blooming and prune out dead and weak wood. To renew old plants, cut a few of the oldest stems to the ground each year after flowering; or cut the entire plant almost to the ground.

Related Links
Lilac Borer
Powdery Mildew


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