Plants & Profits: Lilac

Suggest lilac when customers ask for . . .

• A showy shrub to kick off the spring season
• Something with fragrant flowers
• A low-maintenance shrub or something that thrives on benign neglect
• A “traditional” garden shrub
• Something that can be used as a cut flower

{The story}
No plant heralds spring quite like lilac. Its fragrant flowers are prized by homeowners and attract pollinators while in bloom. Many gardeners will plant several different varieties throughout the garden with different bloom times, allowing them to enjoy lilac’s beauty and fragrance for a longer stretch of time. The height and spread of these shrubs varies considerably, depending upon the species and/or variety planted. Full sun and good air circulation are crucial for lilac to thrive and prevent powdery mildew. Most lilacs flower from old wood, and do not respond well to pruning.

Display and marketing possibilities

• Sell a “lilac progression” package. Group early-, mid- and late-blooming varieties together and offer them at a special price.
• Suggest lilac as a “milestone” planting—something homeowners can plant to commemorate the birth of a child, home purchase, anniversary, etc.
• Partner with local botanic gardens and arboretums that host lilac festivals. Or create your own.
• Create a display showcasing the color spectrum of lilacs: purple, cream, yellow and pink.