Pollination Information for Declaration Lilac

Declaration Lilac, also known as Syringa x hyacinthiflora 'Declaration', is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Oleaceae family. This variety of lilac blooms in mid-season with dark reddish-purple buds that open to fragrant, deep pink-red flowers. To ensure successful pollination and healthy growth, here are some key points to keep in mind:

Pollination Type

Declaration Lilac is partially self-fertile, which means that it can produce seeds by self-pollination but will benefit from cross-pollination with another lilac variety. Cross-pollination is essential to ensure genetic diversity and prevent inbreeding depression. Therefore, if you want to get the most out of your Declaration Lilac, it's recommended to plant it near other lilac varieties.

Pollinators

As with most flowers, pollination of Declaration Lilac is mainly done by bees, especially honeybees and bumblebees. These insects are attracted to the lilac's sweet scent and nectar, which are located at the base of each flower. The bees collect the pollen on their bodies as they move from one flower to another, facilitating cross-pollination. Other pollinators that may visit lilac flowers include butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds.

Cultural Practices

To ensure your Declaration Lilac attracts pollinators, it's necessary to maintain proper cultural practices. This includes providing enough sunlight, water, and nutrients. Lilacs prefer full sun exposure and well-draining soil that's slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.5-7.5). They also require moderate watering during the growing season and regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Pruning can also improve air circulation and remove dead wood, promoting healthy growth and blooming.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Declaration Lilac is a beautiful shrub that can benefit from cross-pollination with other lilac varieties. Bees are the primary pollinators of lilac flowers, but other insects and birds may also visit them. Maintaining proper cultural practices can help attract pollinators and ensure healthy growth and blooming.

Declaration Lilac (Syringa x hyacinthiflora 'Declaration') FAQ

What is Declaration Lilac?

Declaration Lilac (Syringa x hyacinthiflora 'Declaration') is a deciduous shrub that produces clusters of fragrant, lilac-pink flowers in the spring.

How tall and wide does Declaration Lilac grow?

Declaration Lilac typically grows to be 8-10 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide.

Where should I plant Declaration Lilac?

Declaration Lilac prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is a great addition to a garden or landscape as a specimen plant or as a hedge.

When should I prune Declaration Lilac?

For optimal growth and flowering, prune Declaration Lilac immediately after the blooms fade in the spring. This allows the plant to produce new growth that will bloom the following year.

How often should I water Declaration Lilac?

Declaration Lilac prefers evenly moist soil but can tolerate mild drought. Water deeply once a week, or more often in hot or dry weather.

What kind of fertilizer should I use on Declaration Lilac?

Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formulation, in early spring to encourage growth and flowering.

Does Declaration Lilac attract bees or butterflies?

Yes, Declaration Lilac attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its fragrant blooms.

Is Declaration Lilac deer-resistant?

While not completely deer-resistant, Declaration Lilac is less likely to be damaged by deer than other varieties of lilac.

Does Declaration Lilac have any special insect or disease concerns?

Declaration Lilac is generally free from insect and disease problems but can occasionally be affected by powdery mildew or borers.

Planting & Care for Declaration Lilac (Syringa x hyacinthiflora 'Declaration')

Planting:

• Choose a planting location with well-drained soil and full sun exposure.
• Dig a hole twice the diameter and as deep as the root ball of the plant.
• Loosen any tangled roots and place the plant in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface.
• Fill the hole with soil and pack firmly around the plant.
• Water thoroughly.

Care:

• Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) and again in late spring with a fertilizer high in phosphorus (such as 5-10-5).
• Prune after flowering, cutting back up to one-third of the plant to promote healthy growth and shape.
• Remove any dead or diseased wood as soon as it is noticed.
• Mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

With proper planting and care, your Declaration Lilac should bloom heavily in late spring to early summer, filling your garden with its fragrant pinkish-purple flowers.