My new first year 3 month old lilac plant is budding. What should I do? - Ask Extension
My new first year 3 month old lilac plant is budding. What should I do?
1.Are these buds setting for the spring?
2. Or, should I cut the buds off...
Knowledgebase
My new first year 3 month old lilac plant is budding. What should I do? #943310
Asked August 24, 2026, 6:29 PM EDT
My new first year 3 month old lilac plant is budding. What should I do?
1.Are these buds setting for the spring?
2. Or, should I cut the buds off in Aug., now so more plant energy goes to the roots for the winter?
Washington County Minnesota
Expert Response
Lilacs get confused with our hot weather. Regardless, expect that you'll have less flowing next spring.
As the article explains., not all the buds will bloom now, so I would let bloom whatever blooms and it's not a significant enough thing to worry about cutting flowers off - that's stressful too. Enjoy the blooms. Confused Minnesota lilacs produce rare fall blooms | MPR News https://share.google/cn2cEAaSLoB9ttD2o
