Lilac is a common flowering tree species, which is not only ornamental but also has many medicinal values. To keep lilac trees healthy and beautiful, we need to master the correct pruning time and methods.
The period around spring is the best time for pruning lilac trees
The period around spring is the best time for pruning lilac trees, generally from late March to early April. At this time, the tree has passed the winter dormancy period but has not yet entered the growing period, making it the most suitable time.
Avoid pruning lilac trees during their growing period
Pruning lilac trees during their growing period will affect the tree's normal growth and flowering. We need to avoid pruning during the growing period.
Remove dead, diseased, and pest-infested branches
When pruning, the first step is to remove dead, diseased, and pest-infested branches to prevent them from consuming nutrients and spreading diseases and pests.
Create a natural shape for the lilac tree
When pruning, we should follow the natural shape of the lilac tree and avoid over-pruning, which can affect the tree's health and beauty.
Pay attention to protecting the main trunk of the lilac tree
The main trunk of the lilac tree is the skeleton of the tree and must be protected. When pruning, some lateral branches should be left to ensure the main trunk receives adequate nutrients and support.
Appropriately shorten lateral branches
Long or dense lateral branches can affect the lilac tree's ventilation, light absorption, and flowering. It is necessary to appropriately shorten some lateral branches during pruning.
Pay attention to thinning out the top branches
Dense branches at the top can affect the growth and flowering of the entire lilac tree. When pruning, it is important to thin out the top branches to allow for better absorption of sunlight and nutrients.
Pay attention to the direction of the buds
When pruning, pay attention to the direction of the buds. Retain buds that grow outward to maintain the lilac tree's natural shape and beauty.
Prune according to the age of the tree
Young lilac trees grow quickly and require moderate pruning to promote branching and flower bud formation. Older trees, however, need less pruning to maintain their health and beauty.
Keep pruning tools sharp
The sharpness of pruning tools has a significant impact on the pruning effect. Check the sharpness of tools before pruning and be sure to clean and maintain them promptly after each use.
Avoid damaging the bark of the lilac tree
When pruning, avoid damaging the bark of the lilac tree to prevent infection and disease.
Use a plant healing agent for treatment
After pruning, a plant healing agent can be used to promote wound healing and resist diseases and pests.
Timely remove fallen leaves, pine cones, etc.
Timely remove debris such as fallen leaves and pine cones under the lilac tree to avoid affecting its growth and flowering.
Water and fertilize scientifically
Scientific watering and fertilizing are important measures to keep lilac trees healthy and beautiful and need to be adjusted according to the season and growth conditions.
The correct pruning time and methods are crucial for the health and beauty of lilac trees. When pruning, we need to remove dead, diseased, and pest-infested branches, create a natural tree shape, protect the main trunk and lateral branches, pay attention to the direction of the buds, moderately shorten lateral branches and thin out top branches, avoid damaging the bark, use a plant healing agent for treatment, promptly remove debris, and water and fertilize scientifically.