Lilac common It comes from southeastern Europe, mainly from the Balkans. At the end of the 16th century, he came to European gardens thanks to the stallion Ghiselin de Busbecq, the ambassador of the Ottoman Empire, who in 1562 brought seedlings from Constantinople. The plant quickly gained popularity, becoming a symbol of spring and elegance. In the nineteenth century, French gardener Wiktor Lemoine He revolutionized the cultivation of lilacs, creating new, full -flowered varieties, which are still called “French lily”. His works resulted in over 200 varieties that delight with the variety of colors – from classic purple to delicate white and roses.
In Poland, lilacs also have their rich history. The arboretum in Kórnik, one of the most important dendrological research centers in the country, contributed to the growing of domestic varieties of lilacs – ‘Kórnicka Perła’ or ‘Stefan Banach’.
In order for lilacs to delight with abundant inflorescences, it is necessary to properly fertilize, adapted to their vegetation cycle. Lilacs bloom on last year’s shootswhich means that proper feeding with nutrients in a timely manner supports both the development of flower buds and the overall condition of the plant.
The best moment for the first fertilization is early spring – March or the beginning of April, When the bushes begin to wake up after winter. During this period, lilacs need nutrients to power new growths and prepare flower buds for May flowering.
The second fertilization should be carried out right After flowering, usually in June. This treatment supports plant regeneration, strengthens its root system and prepares it for the next season. In regions with a milder climate, additional light fertilization can be considered in autumn (September-October), using slow-acting fertilizers that support rooting before winter.
Fertilization of lilacs does not require complicated treatments, but precision and moderation are of great importance. Just follow a few basic steps
- Before fertilizing, slightly loosen the soil around the bush, avoiding damage to the roots, which grow mainly in the upper layer of the soil.
- Evenly, scatter the fertilizer within a radius corresponding to the crown of the bush (usually 50-100 cm from the trunk, depending on the size of the plant). Avoid pouring fertilizer directly at the trunk so as not to burn the tissues.
- Gently mix the fertilizer with the top layer of soil with hornbeam or hoe. Then the ingredients will not be washed away by rain.
- After fertilizing, water the shrub generously (about 10-15 liters of water into a medium-sized plant). Water facilitates the transport of nutrients to the roots.
- After fertilization, you can use a layer of organic litter (e.g. pine bark or compost) 5-7 cm thick. The mulch limits water evaporation and protects the nutrients from rinsing.
Important attention: Lilacs prefer inert or slightly alkaline soils (pH 6.5-7.5). If the soil in your garden is too sour, it is worth using garden lime before fertilizing to adjust the pH – it’s best to do it in autumn to avoid interaction with fertilizers.
Lilacs are sensitive to excess nitrogen, which can lead to lush leaf growth at the expense of flowers, which is why we should use mineral fertilizers with care. Multi-component products for flowering plants or decorative shrubs with a composed of flowering, e.g. NPK 10-20-20 will work well (low nitrogen, high phosphorus and potassium). Phosphorus supports the development of flower buds, and potassium strengthens plant tissues and resistance to environmental stress.
If you prefer an ecological approach, put on organic fertilizers. Well -distributed compound Home provides a wide spectrum of nutrients. Spread 2-3 liters of compost per square meter around the bush once in the season. You can also decide on a slurry of nettle, biohumus and Constantly manure (minimum 6 months) to avoid root burning. Fresh manure is too aggressive and can damage the plant. Use 1-2 kg per bush once a year, preferably in spring.
Lilacs react well to fertilizers with microelements such as magnesium and calcium, which improve photosynthesis and strengthen the plant’s structure. Consider foliar spraying with magnesium fertilizers during intensive growth (April-May).
Warning: Avoid excessive fertilization – too high a dose of nutrients, especially nitrogen, can lead to weakening flowering and increased susceptibility to powdery mildew.
