Syringa vulgaris 'Congo'

• Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Wildlife Resistant: Resistant to deer and rabbits

• Foliage Season: Spring to fall (deciduous)
• Flowering Season: Mid to late spring (April to May)
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-7

• Hedgerows and privacy screens
• Cottage gardens
• Borders and foundation plantings
• Cutting gardens
• Wildlife gardens

• Color: Dark green
• Form: Broad, heart-shaped leaves with smooth edges
• Fall Interest: Turns yellow before shedding

• Color: Deep purple-red flowers
• Form: Large, dense clusters (panicles) of small, tubular flowers
• Bloom Time: Mid-spring, lasting several weeks
• Fragrance: Strongly fragrant, classic lilac scent

• Planting Time: Spring or fall when temperatures are mild
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil; adaptable to slightly alkaline or clay soils
• Planting Depth: Same depth as in the nursery container
• Spacing: 6-8 feet apart

• Timing: After flowering in late spring
• Method: Remove spent flower clusters, thin older stems, and cut back weak branches

• Watering Frequency: Regular during the first growing season; during dry spells once established
• Soil Moisture: Moist but well-drained; avoid waterlogging

Full sun (6-8 hours daily); tolerates partial shade but reduces flowering

 When to Harvest:

• Late spring, typically May to early June, depending on your climate zone.
  
• Best stage: When ~75% of the florets on the panicle have opened but before they start to fade or dry out.

How to Harvest:

• Time of day: Harvest in the early morning when temperatures are cooler and blooms are most hydrated.
  
• Use sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid damaging stems.
  
• Cut stems at a 45-degree angle to increase water uptake.
  
• Remove leaves from the lower half of each stem to prevent rot in vases.
  

 Post-Harvest Handling (For Floral Use):

• Immediately place cut stems in cool water.
  
• Optional tip: Gently crush the ends of woody stems or split them to help with water absorption.
  
• Change vase water every 2–3 days and re-cut the base for longevity.
  

• Expect blooms to last 4–7 days indoors with proper care.
  
  Additional Tips:

• Do not harvest all blooms if you want to encourage healthy regrowth and future flowering.
  
• Avoid harvesting from young or newly planted shrubs—wait at least 2–3 years after planting for best results.

• Fertilization Time: Early spring before new growth
• Fertilizer Type: Balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost

• Mulching: 1-2 inch layer around the base; avoid touching the trunk
• Drought Tolerance: Moderately drought-tolerant once established
• Pests and Diseases: Powdery mildew prevention with good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering

Pollinated by bees and other insects; flowers are self-pollinating

• Viburnum
• Peonies
• Lavandula (Lavender)
• Nepeta (Catmint)