Syringa meyeri Flowerfesta® Pink (‘Anny2817’PBR)

• Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators are drawn to the fragrant flowers.
• Wildlife Resistant: Resistant to deer and rabbits, making it a good choice for wildlife-prone gardens.

• Foliage Season: Spring to fall (deciduous).
• Flowering Season: Late spring to early summer (May to June).
• Rebloom: May rebloom lightly in summer.
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-7

• Small gardens
• Containers and patio pots
• Pollinator gardens
• Cottage gardens
• Borders and foundation plantings

• Color: Dark green, glossy leaves.
• Form: Small, oval-shaped leaves that are dense and remain attractive throughout the growing season.
• Fall Interest: Leaves remain vibrant until frost, providing a consistent, lush green backdrop for the flowers.

• Color: Soft pink buds open into fragrant pink flowers.
• Form: Dense, upright clusters of small, tubular flowers that cover the plant, creating a striking floral display.
• Bloom Time: Blooms profusely from late spring to early summer, with the possibility of light reblooming in late summer.
• Fragrance: Pleasantly fragrant, attracting pollinators and adding a sweet scent to the garden.

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Can tolerate a range of soil types, including slightly alkaline or acidic soils.
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as in the nursery container, ensuring the root ball is level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart to accommodate their mature growth and ensure proper air circulation.

• Timing: Prune immediately after flowering to maintain shape and encourage vigorous new growth. Avoid heavy pruning in summer, as this can affect next season’s blooms.
• Method: Remove spent flower heads to encourage a tidy appearance and promote the possibility of a light rebloom. Thin out old, woody stems in late winter or early spring to rejuvenate the plant.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Once established, water during dry periods or drought conditions.
• Soil Moisture: Prefers evenly moist soil but can tolerate occasional dry periods once established

Thrives in full sun. At least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day is essential for optimal flowering and compact growth. It can tolerate partial shade, but flowering may be reduced.

Flower Harvesting:

• Cut stems when about half to two-thirds of the florets on a panicle are open for optimal vase life and appearance.
  
• Harvest early in the morning when the plant is fully hydrated.
  
• Use clean, sharp pruners and place stems immediately in cool water.
  
• For longer vase life, lightly crush or split the bottom of the stems to improve water uptake.
  

Deadheading:

• Remove spent flower clusters promptly after blooming to maintain appearance and encourage a second flush of blooms later in the season.
  
• Deadheading also prevents seed development, allowing the plant to focus energy on growth and rebloom.
  

Pruning for Regrowth:

• Prune lightly immediately after the first main bloom to shape the plant and promote repeat flowering.
  
• Avoid pruning too late in the season, as buds for next year's blooms form on new wood early.
  

Seed Collection:

• Not typically practiced, as Flowerfesta™ Pink is a cultivated variety, and seeds may not produce true-to-type plants.
  
• If desired, allow spent blooms to mature and dry on the plant, then collect the small, dry seed capsules in late summer.

• Fertilization Time: Fertilize in early spring before new growth begins.
• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or an organic compost to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

• Mulching: Apply a 1-2 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots from temperature extremes.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, Syringa meyeri Flowerfesta® Pink is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during dry spells.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free and resistant to common diseases. Good air circulation and well-drained soil will help prevent powdery mildew, which can occasionally affect lilacs.

Pollinated by bees and other pollinators. Flowers are self-fertile, producing seeds if left unpruned, although the plant is primarily grown for its ornamental blooms rather than seed production.

• Lavandula (Lavender)
• Nepeta (Catmint)
• Salvia
• Echinacea (Coneflower)