How to Prune Korean Lilacs

Lilac bushes come in many varieties, among them the dwarf Korean lilac, known for its small stature and strong fragrance. As a general rule, lilacs are low-maintenance shrubs or trees that should not be pruned for the first three to four years of life, and only sparingly after that. Always use clean pruning shears when pruning to avoid causing disease in your lilacs.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears

Instructions

1. Cut back old blooms 1/2 to 1 inch above where the first pair of leaves grow from the branch. If you do not remove spent blooms, the stem will produce leaves the next year but will not flower.

2. Remove weaker branches from the middle of the bush to prevent a thicket from developing. Make cuts at the point of the limb's origin.

3. Prune back older bushes with runaway growth by cutting off 1/3 of the height of the bush every year for three years.

4. Cut back branches that are diseased or affected by insect pests by removing the infected portion of the branch.

References

• Cornell Cooperative Extension: Growing Lilacs
• University of Alaska Fairbanks Extension: Prune Lilacs to Ensure Blooms Next Spring