When do you prune a lilac tree?

Answer 1

I usually start with cutting out all of the 'suckers' in the bush. These are the very straight branches growing straight up. Then I trim to the height that I want to bush at. Then I will thin out a bit, trying to take out some of the very oldest branches to allow the new growth to fill in. Another criteria to look at is anywhere two fairly large branches are crossing each other, particularly if they are touching each other. The main thing to remember is that lilac flowers on two to three year old wood so don't prune the tree too hard unless you are prepared to do without flowers for a couple of years!

Answer 2

Knowing when to trim lilac bushes is important. Most lilacs don't require pruning until they reach about six to eight feet tall. The best time for pruning lilac bushes is right after their flowering has ceased. This allows new shoots plenty of time to develop the next season of blooms. Pruning lilacs too late can kill young developing buds. If you are pruning lilac trees or shrubs entirely to within inches of the ground, it is best to do so in early spring. New shoots will develop during the regular growing season as long as there are a few healthy shoots left. Once the growing season has ended, remove any unsightly shoots. Pruning lilac bushes is important for their health and flower production. Lilacs are generally pretty hardy and if proper pruning is performed, they will come back stronger than ever.

Answer 3

Azaleas should not require pruning. If the bush is outgrowing the space cut it back hard, you will lose a years flowers but it will recover. I would consider moving it and replacing it with a less vigorous variety that will not outgrow the allotted space.

Answer 4

Pruning should be done before the lilac bush starts to bud out in the Spring. To encourage new growth, this is the best time. For shaping, anytime the plant is dormant, has lost its leaves, will work.