Re: question on canna and lilacs
- To: perennials@mallorn.com
- Subject: Re: question on canna and lilacs
- From: L*@aol.com
- Date: Sat, 27 Jun 1998 13:52:40 EDT
In a message dated 98-06-27 10:18:06 EDT, you write:
<< Don't know if lilacs qualify as perennials
but...... when do you cut the seed heads off the bush. We had an
extraordinarily good year for lilacs this year and the bushes are
overloaded with seed heads. Thanks.
>>
No, lilacs are not perennials, they are woodys. But I will answer because
some of this applies to perennials as well.
I didn't deadhead my lilacs at all until a few years ago. Now I just clip off
the flowerheads as soon as they start to turn brown. I find it makes a huge
difference. Since I have been doing this I have lots more blooms (and thus
fragrance) the following season. Lilacs expend a lot of energy making seed.
If they don't have to do that they have more energy to use producing flower
buds.
I started deadheading mine when I began the practice of deadheading all of the
non-native plants (perennials & woodys) in my yard to protect a newly
designated natural area a few blocks from my home. The idea was to keep the
seeds from being carried by wind or birds, thus escaping cultivation and
invading the natural area.
My good dead has been rewarded with lots and lots of flowers! --Janis
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