Table of Contents
Introduction
The Bloomerang lilac (Syringa x ‘Penda’) is a remarkable ornamental shrub known for its extended blooming period. Unlike traditional lilacs, it blooms twice a year—once in the spring around May and then again from mid-summer through the first frost. This compact, low-maintenance plant is perfect for gardens of all sizes, offering a delightful fragrance and vibrant lavender-purple flowers. Its resilience and repeat blooming make it a favorite among gardeners looking for a reliable and beautiful addition to their landscape.
Exploring 5 Varieties of Bloomerang Lilac Plants
Bloomerang lilacs are known for their reblooming capabilities, and several varieties offer different flower colors and growth habits. Here are some popular varieties of Bloomerang lilac plants:
1. Bloomerang® Dark Purple Lilac (Syringa x ‘SMSJBP7’): This variety features deep purple flowers and has the same reblooming characteristics as the original Bloomerang. It is a compact shrub, typically reaching 4-6 feet in height and width.
2. Bloomerang® Purple Lilac (Syringa x ‘Penda’): The original Bloomerang variety, known for its purple flowers and twice-yearly blooming cycle. It grows to about 4-5 feet in height and width.
3. Bloomerang® Pink Perfume Lilac (Syringa x ‘Pinka’): This variety produces fragrant pink flowers and has a similar growth habit to the other Bloomerang varieties, reaching about 4-5 feet in height and width.
4. Bloomerang® Dwarf Purple Lilac (Syringa x ‘SMNJRPI’): A more compact version of the Bloomerang lilac, this dwarf variety grows to about 2.5-3 feet in height and width, making it ideal for smaller gardens or containers.
5. Bloomerang® Dwarf Pink Lilac (Syringa x ‘SMNJRPU’): Similar to the Dwarf Purple variety, this dwarf lilac features pink flowers and reaches a compact size of 2.5-3 feet in height and width, perfect for small spaces or container gardening.
Each of these varieties offers the unique advantage of extended blooming periods and compact growth, making them versatile and attractive choices for gardeners.
How to Grow and Care for Bloomerang Lilac Plant
Growing and caring for Bloomerang lilac plants involves providing the right conditions and maintenance to ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms. Here are some tips on how to grow and care for Bloomerang lilac plants:
Planting
- Location: Choose a location with full sun, as Bloomerang lilacs need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal blooming.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5-7.5). Lilacs do not tolerate soggy or overly wet soil.
- Spacing: Space the plants about 4-6 feet apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
Planting Steps
- Digging the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
- Amending Soil: If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, amend it with organic matter such as compost to improve drainage and nutrient content.
- Planting: Place the lilac in the hole at the same depth it was growing in the pot. Fill the hole with soil and gently firm it around the roots.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.
Watering
- Establishment: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system.
- Mature Plants: Once established, lilacs are fairly drought-tolerant but will benefit from regular watering during dry periods.
Fertilizing
- Timing: Fertilize in early spring before new growth begins.
- Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a fertilizer formulated for flowering shrubs.
Pruning
- Timing: Prune immediately after the first bloom cycle in spring. Bloomerang lilacs bloom on old wood, so pruning after the first bloom encourages new growth and a second bloom in late summer.
- Method: Remove spent flower clusters and any dead or damaged wood. Lightly shape the plant as needed.
- Maintenance Pruning: Remove any suckers (new shoots) that emerge from the base of the plant to maintain its shape and vigor.
Mulching
- Mulch: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep mulch a few inches away from the stem to prevent rot.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Watch for common pests such as aphids, borers, and scale. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Diseases: Bloomerang lilacs are relatively disease-resistant but can occasionally suffer from powdery mildew or root rot. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimize disease risk.
Winter Care
- Protection: In colder climates, apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant in late fall to protect the roots from freezing temperatures. Bloomerang lilacs are generally hardy but can benefit from this extra protection.
By following these care guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of Bloomerang lilac plants with their extended blooming period and vibrant flowers.
10 Steps for Propagating Bloomerang Lilac Plant
Propagating Bloomerang lilac plants can be done through cuttings, which is a common and effective method. Here are the steps to propagate Bloomerang lilac plants:
Materials Needed
- Sharp, sterilized pruning shears
- Rooting hormone (optional but recommended)
- Small pots or containers
- Well-draining potting mix
- Clear plastic bags or a propagation dome
- Spray bottle with water
Steps for Propagating Bloomerang Lilac from Cuttings
1. Timing
- The best time to take cuttings is in late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
2. Selecting the Cutting
- Choose healthy, non-flowering stems that are about 6-8 inches long.
- Ensure the stem is semi-hardwood, meaning it is firm but still flexible.
3. Cutting the Stem
- Use sharp, sterilized pruning shears to make a clean cut just below a leaf node (the point where leaves attach to the stem).
- Remove the lower leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, leaving a few leaves at the top.
4. Preparing the Cutting
- Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone to encourage root development. This step is optional but can increase the chances of successful rooting.
5. Planting the Cutting
- Fill a small pot or container with well-draining potting mix.
- Make a hole in the soil with a pencil or your finger and insert the cutting into the hole, burying it about halfway.
- Firm the soil around the cutting to hold it in place.
6. Creating a Humid Environment
- Mist the cutting with water using a spray bottle.
- Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or place it under a propagation dome to create a humid environment that will help the cutting retain moisture.
- Ensure the plastic bag or dome does not touch the leaves of the cutting.
7. Placing the Cutting
- Place the pot in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the cutting.
- Maintain a temperature of around 70-75°F (21-24°C).
8. Caring for the Cutting
- Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Mist the cutting regularly to maintain humidity.
- Check the cutting periodically for signs of root development. This can take several weeks.
9. Transplanting the Cutting
- Once the cutting has developed a strong root system (typically after 6-8 weeks), it can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the garden.
- Gradually acclimate the young plant to outdoor conditions if it was grown indoors by placing it outside for a few hours each day over a week.
10. Ongoing Care
- Continue to water the young plant regularly and provide protection from extreme weather until it is well-established.
By following these steps, you can successfully propagate Bloomerang lilac plants and enjoy their beautiful, fragrant blooms in your garden.
10 Benefits of Bloomerang Lilac Plant
The Bloomerang lilac plant offers numerous benefits, making it a popular choice among gardeners. Here are some of the key benefits:
1. Extended Blooming Period
- Twice-Yearly Blooms: Unlike traditional lilacs that bloom only once in the spring, Bloomerang lilacs bloom twice a year. They produce their first set of flowers in May and then rebloom from mid-summer through the first frost, providing a longer period of color and fragrance in the garden.
2. Fragrance
- Pleasant Scent: The Bloomerang lilac has a delightful, classic lilac fragrance that can fill your garden with a sweet aroma, making it a pleasant addition to outdoor spaces.
3. Compact Size
- Space-Saving: Bloomerang lilacs are more compact than many traditional lilac varieties, typically growing to about 4-6 feet in height and width. This makes them ideal for smaller gardens, mixed borders, or as accent plants.
4. Low Maintenance
- Ease of Care: These plants are relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning and care. They are also resistant to many common pests and diseases that affect other lilac varieties.
5. Versatility
- Multiple Uses: Bloomerang lilacs can be used in a variety of landscape settings, including as hedges, foundation plantings, or focal points in garden beds. Their compact size also makes them suitable for container gardening.
6. Attracts Pollinators
- Wildlife Friendly: The fragrant flowers attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which can help support local ecosystems and promote biodiversity in your garden.
7. Resilience
- Hardiness: Bloomerang lilacs are hardy in USDA zones 3-7, making them suitable for a wide range of climates. They are also relatively drought-tolerant once established, adding to their resilience.
8. Aesthetic Appeal
- Beautiful Flowers: The Bloomerang lilac produces abundant clusters of vibrant, lavender-purple flowers. Some varieties, like the Bloomerang® Pink Perfume, offer pink flowers, providing a range of color options to suit different garden designs.
9. Reblooming Capability
- Continuous Interest: The plant’s ability to rebloom ensures that your garden remains visually appealing throughout the growing season, providing ongoing interest and beauty.
10. Environmental Benefits
- Air Quality: Like other plants, Bloomerang lilacs contribute to improving air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
By incorporating Bloomerang lilacs into your garden, you can enjoy their extended blooming period, beautiful and fragrant flowers, and the many other benefits they offer with minimal maintenance.
Common Pests
Bloomerang lilac plants, while relatively low-maintenance and resilient, can still be susceptible to a few common pests. Here are some of the pests that can affect Bloomerang lilacs and tips on how to manage them:
1. Aphids
- Description: Small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap, often found clustered on new growth.
- Damage: Aphids can cause distorted leaves, stunted growth, and the production of sticky honeydew, which can lead to sooty mold.
- Control:
- Spray plants with a strong jet of water to dislodge aphids.
- Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations.
- Introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
Aphid Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Aphids
2. Lilac Borer (Ash Borer)
- Description: A type of clearwing moth whose larvae bore into the stems and trunks of lilac plants.
- Damage: Borers create tunnels inside the stems, causing wilting, dieback, and weakened plant structure. Sawdust-like frass around the base of the plant is a sign of infestation.
- Control:
- Prune and destroy infested branches to remove larvae.
- Apply beneficial nematodes to the soil around the plant to target larvae.
- Use pheromone traps to monitor and reduce adult borer populations.
- Maintain plant health to make it less susceptible to borer attacks.
3. Scale Insects
- Description: Small, immobile insects covered with a protective shell that feed on plant sap.
- Damage: Scale insects cause yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and produce honeydew, leading to sooty mold.
- Control:
- Scrape off scale insects with a soft brush or cloth.
- Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to treat infestations.
- Introduce natural predators such as parasitic wasps.
Scale Insect Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Scale Insects
4. Spider Mites
- Description: Tiny, spider-like pests that feed on the undersides of leaves, often producing fine webbing.
- Damage: Spider mites cause stippling or speckling on leaves, leading to yellowing, browning, and leaf drop.
- Control:
- Spray plants with water to reduce mite populations.
- Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
- Increase humidity around the plant, as spider mites prefer dry conditions.
Spider Mite Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Spider Mites
5. Leaf Miners
- Description: The larvae of certain flies, moths, or beetles that tunnel between the layers of leaves.
- Damage: Leaf miners create winding, discolored trails on leaves, which can reduce photosynthesis and overall plant health.
- Control:
- Remove and destroy affected leaves to reduce the population.
- Use systemic insecticides if infestations are severe.
- Encourage natural predators like parasitic wasps.
6. Whiteflies
- Description: Small, white, moth-like insects that feed on the undersides of leaves.
- Damage: Whiteflies cause yellowing, wilting, and reduced plant vigor. They also produce honeydew, leading to sooty mold.
- Control:
- Use yellow sticky traps to catch adult whiteflies.
- Spray plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or parasitic wasps.
Whitefly Pest Control: How to Get Rid of Whiteflies
By regularly inspecting your Bloomerang lilac plants and taking prompt action when pests are detected, you can maintain their health and enjoy their beautiful blooms throughout the growing season.
Common Problems
Bloomerang lilac plants are generally hardy and low-maintenance, but they can still encounter some common problems. Here are some issues that may affect Bloomerang lilacs and how to address them:
1. Powdery Mildew
- Description: A fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves.
- Damage: Powdery mildew can cause leaves to curl, distort, and drop prematurely.
- Control:
- Ensure good air circulation by spacing plants properly and pruning to open up the canopy.
- Water the base of the plant rather than the foliage to reduce humidity.
- Apply fungicides if the infestation is severe.
2. Leaf Spots
- Description: Fungal or bacterial infections that cause dark spots on the leaves.
- Damage: Leaf spots can lead to premature leaf drop and reduce the plant’s vigor.
- Control:
- Remove and destroy affected leaves to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Avoid overhead watering to reduce leaf wetness.
- Apply fungicides if necessary.
3. Root Rot
- Description: A fungal disease caused by overly wet soil conditions.
- Damage: Root rot leads to yellowing leaves, wilting, and eventual plant death.
- Control:
- Plant lilacs in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
- Ensure that the planting site does not have standing water.
- Improve soil drainage by adding organic matter or using raised beds.
4. Winter Damage
- Description: Damage caused by cold temperatures and frost.
- Damage: Winter damage can lead to dieback of branches and delayed spring growth.
- Control:
- Apply mulch around the base of the plant to insulate the roots.
- Avoid late-season fertilization that encourages tender new growth.
- Prune out any damaged branches in the spring.
5. Poor Blooming
- Description: The plant fails to produce many flowers.
- Causes:
- Insufficient sunlight: Lilacs need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Improper pruning: Pruning at the wrong time can remove flower buds.
- Nutrient imbalance: Excess nitrogen can promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
- Control:
- Ensure the plant is getting enough sunlight.
- Prune immediately after the first bloom cycle in spring to avoid removing next year’s flower buds.
- Use a balanced fertilizer and avoid over-fertilizing with high-nitrogen fertilizers.
6. Suckering
- Description: The plant produces unwanted shoots from the base or roots.
- Damage: Suckers can sap energy from the main plant and reduce its vigor.
- Control:
- Regularly remove suckers by cutting them off at the base.
- Use a sharp, sterilized tool to prevent the spread of disease.
7. Yellowing Leaves (Chlorosis)
- Description: Leaves turn yellow while the veins remain green.
- Causes:
- Nutrient deficiencies, particularly iron.
- Poor soil drainage or compaction.
- Control:
- Test soil pH and adjust if necessary to ensure it is slightly alkaline to neutral.
- Improve soil drainage and aeration.
- Apply chelated iron if iron deficiency is confirmed.
8. Pests
- Common Pests: Aphids, lilac borers, scale insects, spider mites, leaf miners, and whiteflies.
- Control:
- Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests.
- Use appropriate insecticides or natural predators to control pest populations.
By addressing these common problems promptly and maintaining good cultural practices, you can keep your Bloomerang lilac plants healthy and vibrant.
FAQs
1. Are bloomerang lilacs fragrant?
Yes, Bloomerang lilacs are fragrant.
2. Are bloomerang lilacs edible?
No, Bloomerang lilacs are not edible.
3. Are bloomerang lilacs deer resistant?
Bloomerang lilacs are generally considered deer resistant, as deer tend to avoid plants with fragrant foliage like lilacs. However, in times of severe food scarcity, deer may still browse on them.
4. Are bloomerang lilacs evergreen?
No, Bloomerang lilacs are deciduous, not evergreen.
5. How big does a bloomerang lilac get?
A Bloomerang lilac typically grows to about 4-6 feet in height and width.
6. How fast does bloomerang lilac grow?
Bloomerang lilacs typically grow at a moderate rate, reaching their full size of 4-6 feet in height and width over a few years.
7. Do bloomerang lilacs smell good?
Yes, Bloomerang lilacs have a pleasant fragrance.
8. Can you prune bloomerang lilacs?
Yes, you can prune Bloomerang lilacs.
9. Can lilacs rebloom?
Yes, some lilac varieties, such as Bloomerang lilacs, can rebloom.
10. Do bloomerang lilacs spread?
Bloomerang lilacs can spread through suckering, producing new shoots from the base of the plant. Proper pruning and maintenance can help control their spread.
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