How to Deadhead Reblooming Lilacs

Lilacs typically flower once in late spring or early summer, providing the landscape briefly with attractive clusters of highly fragrant flowers. Some lilac varieties, such as Littleleaf lilacs, rebloom a second time during the summer. Although the second bloom period isn't as lush as the initial spring flowering, the flowers are just as fragrant as the first flush of spring blossoms. Deadheading the old flowers improves the appearance of the lilac bush and prevents it from setting seed, which allows the plant to use its energy for reblooming instead of seed production.

Things You'll Need

• Pruning shears

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Trace down the stem from the wilted flower cluster. Locate the two new shoots or buds forming closest to the cluster.

   • 2

     Cut through the stem with sharp shears, removing the old cluster to within ¼ inch of the two new shoots. Repeat for each wilted cluster.

   • 3

     Deadhead the lilac bush one to two times a week throughout the initial flowering period. Remove the clusters as soon as they begin to decline.

   • 4

     Prune out the wilted flowers a second time after the second summer blossoming period.