Marianne's Response

Why is my lilac not blooming?

lilac

Good Morning,
I purchased a Syringa Vulgaris Purpurea lilac in the Spring of 2020. It has grown considerably and has loads of leaves but as of yet, it has not produced flowers. Is this normal? The lilac receives full Sun for at least 6 hours a day. I also had gotten two Little Kim’s which although not loaded with blooms, is at least producing some. I have added an epsom salt solution the last two years in early Fall.
Any help is deeply appreciated.
Laurie

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Posted by Laurie Andrews on June 15, 2022

Marianne's Response

I get this question about stubborn lilacs often and the best I can do is assure you the flowers will come but not until the lilac is good and ready. This is one shrub that needs to be fully mature before blooming and sometimes that is as long as seven years in a new spot. Sounds like you are doing everything right giving your lilac full sun with plenty of new growth. I do suggest you feed with Osmocote in the spring as a lack of potassium or trace nutrients could be slowing down the maturation process. Another tip is to not prune the lilac as it settles in the first few year. Worth the wait for those fragrant buds. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti

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