Lilacs (Syringa vulgaris) are known as a low-maintenance and hardy woody shrub, providing vibrant blooms and filling gardens with their distinctive scent.
Loved by gardeners across the country, they thrive in the UK's climate and, once established, require little pruning compared to other perennials.
However, that's not to say a little pruning doesn't go a long way with lilacs and can heavily affect next year's blooms.
"Both pruning and light are crucial for next year's blooms," explains Matthew Wilson, professional gardener and CEO of Handy Gardeners.
When it comes to pruning lilacs, it's essential to get the timing right.
We asked Matthew for his advice on the best time to prune lilacs and how to ensure they thrive year after year.
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Prune lilacs straight after flowering
It's essential to give lilacs a light pruning straight after flowering, rather than waiting for later in the summer to ensure vibrant blooms next year.
Lilacs set next year's buds as soon as the current year's flowers have faded. Pruning in the summer will put next year's buds at risk.
Flowering in the UK typically takes place from April to early June for lilacs, depending on the variety and climate.
"Blooming plants devote resources to seed production, so pruning helps aid healthy growth, Matthew explains, before continuing, "Summer and autumn are poor times to prune.
"Keeping buds in place and removing seedlings are important, as the buds are next year's growth."
Concentrate on stem health
"Stem pruning removes seed capsules and controls the plant's shape," Matthew explains.
A light pruning after lilac flowers have faded can be kept simple, consisting of any light shaping, followed by the removal of broken, dead, or diseased stems.
Gardeners can also lightly deadhead lilacs, removing spent flowers to encourage healthy growth.
For this more delicate and intentional type of pruning, it's best to do it by hand rather than using more cumbersome garden tools.
Enhance soil quality for better blooms
"Alongside pruning, sunshine and airflow are also key in lilacs' health," Matthew explains. "Well-drained and sunny soils are essential for them to thrive."
Lilacs tend to prefer neutral to alkaline soil - if your soil is too acidic, you could try adding wood ashes or agricultural lime to raise the pH.
To improve the soil structure, try adding a layer of compost around the base of the plant for a nutrient boost, but be wary of added nitrogen.
"Blooms are deterred from high nitrogen soils," Matthew explains, so avoid high nitrogen compost where possible.
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