Q: I’ve had a lilac bush for about five years. Last year I cut it back, and it didn’t bloom this year. What did I do wrong?
— Patty Prince, Akron
A: You probably pruned the bush too late in the season. Lilacs form the next year’s buds shortly after they finish blooming, so if you don’t time your trimming right, you risk cutting off the buds.
To keep from ruining the next year’s bloom, prune your lilacs just after their flowers drop off.
Have a question about home maintenance, decorating or gardening? Akron Beacon Journal home writer Mary Beth Breckenridge will find answers for the queries that are chosen to appear in the paper. To submit a question, call her at 330-996-3756, or send email to mbrecken@thebeaconjournal.com. Be sure to include your full name, your town and your phone number or email address.
