Yes, I get lilacs are not blooming right now, so why talk about them now? Well, now is the time to plan and plant them for next spring. If you were missing fragrance in your garden, you want more birds visiting or are in need of some spring color next year, lilacs will give it to you. And yes, there are some small lilac plants that will fit most spaces.
Lilac plants are shrubs, the older varieties very large. Newer dwarf cultivars are more compact but remain measured in feet not inches. The flowers are worth it but plan space for it to grow. Photo by Chuck Eirschele.
Small is relative so one lilac may be all you get to have, so wisely chose your lilac. Consider a Japanese lilac tree. A smaller tree adds some shade to a cottage or cutting garden and Syringa reticulata is a tough but smaller tree.
Japanese lilac trees have an upright form but stay at 25 feet. The flowers bloom in May and June. Photo by Chris Eirschele.
If fragrance is what is missing in your bid to stay gardening, consider designing a garden that incorporates several scented plants then add annuals every summer for color. Magnolias, lilacs and peonies can start you off.
A lilac plant may only flower in spring. But when it comes to cutting a bouquet, you will be happy for those lilac flowers. Photo by Chuck Eirschele
Lilacs bring hummingbirds and butterflies. A small tree with lilac flowers will create some shade in summer. Photo by Chris Eirschele.
