As a gardening and landscaping expert, I understand the challenges that come with overgrown lilac bushes. To effectively get rid of these unruly shrubs, there are a few steps you can follow.
1. Assess the situation: Before diving into pruning, take a moment to evaluate the lilac bushes. Determine how overgrown they are and if they are healthy or diseased. This will help you decide the best approach to take.
2. Pruning over a three-year period: One method to prune old lilacs is to spread the process over three years. This gradual approach allows the plant to adjust and minimizes shock. Begin in late winter by removing one-third of the large, old stems at ground level. This will open up the plant and make future pruning easier.
3. Second-year pruning: In the following year, again in late winter, it’s time for the second round of pruning. This time, focus on removing half of the remaining old stems. By doing this, you continue to thin out the plant and encourage new growth.
4. Final year pruning: In the third year, once again in late winter, it’s time for the final pruning session. By this point, the lilac bushes should be significantly rejuvenated. Remove any remaining old stems, making way for new shoots to thrive.
5. Prune dead or diseased branches: Throughout the three-year pruning process, it’s important to keep an eye out for dead or diseased branches. These should be removed promptly as they can hinder the plant’s overall health and appearance.
6. Maintain proper care: Once the overgrown lilac bushes have been pruned, it’s crucial to provide them with proper care. This includes regular watering, fertilizing, and mulching. Additionally, consider applying a layer of organic compost around the base of the plant to promote healthy growth.
Personal experience: I have encountered overgrown lilac bushes in several gardens I have worked on. One particular instance involved a neglected garden where the lilacs had been left unpruned for many years. By following the three-year pruning approach, we were able to gradually rejuvenate the lilacs and bring them back to a more manageable size. It was amazing to witness the transformation as the new growth emerged and the vibrant blooms returned.
Getting rid of overgrown lilac bushes requires a patient and gradual approach. By pruning them over a three-year period, removing old stems each year, you can rejuvenate the shrubs and encourage healthy new growth. Remember to remove any dead or diseased branches along the way and provide proper care to maintain their vitality.
