Pollination Information for Miss Kim Lilac (Syringa pubescens subsp. patula 'Miss Kim')

Miss Kim Lilac is a deciduous shrub that blooms in late spring or early summer with fragrant, pale lavender-blue flowers that attract bees and butterflies. In order to produce fruit, however, Miss Kim Lilac needs to be pollinated by another lilac plant.

Lilacs are mostly self-incompatible, which means that their own pollen cannot fertilize their ovules. As a result, cross-pollination with a different lilac cultivar or species is necessary for fruit production. Since Miss Kim Lilac is a cultivar of Syringa pubescens subsp. patula, it can be pollinated by other cultivars of this species or by other related lilac species such as Syringa vulgaris.

The most effective way to ensure cross-pollination is to plant several different cultivars of lilac in close proximity to each other. This will increase the likelihood that insects such as bees and butterflies will transfer pollen between the different plants.

It is also important to note that Miss Kim Lilac can produce viable seeds, but they may not produce true to type offspring due to genetic variation. Therefore, vegetative propagation methods such as cuttings or grafting are recommended for preserving the characteristics of this cultivar.

Miss Kim Lilac (Syringa pubescens subsp. patula 'Miss Kim') FAQ

What is Miss Kim Lilac?

Miss Kim Lilac is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the olive family. It is a cultivar of Syringa pubescens subsp. patula and is known for its beautiful, fragrant flowers that bloom in the spring.

What are the characteristics of Miss Kim Lilac?

Miss Kim Lilac has a dense, rounded habit and can grow up to 8 feet tall and wide. It has small, dark green leaves that turn burgundy in the fall. The flowers are fragrant and range in color from light purple to lavender-blue.

What is the best location for Miss Kim Lilac?

Miss Kim Lilac prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types and pH levels but does not do well in wet or soggy soil. It is cold hardy and can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 7.

When does Miss Kim Lilac bloom?

Miss Kim Lilac blooms in the spring, usually in May or early June. The flowers last for several weeks and are followed by small, inconspicuous brown seed capsules.

How do you care for Miss Kim Lilac?

Miss Kim Lilac requires minimal care once established. It should be watered regularly in the first year after planting to help it establish a good root system. It does not need to be fertilized and pruning should be kept to a minimum. Dead or damaged branches can be pruned in late fall or early spring.

What are some common problems with Miss Kim Lilac?

Miss Kim Lilac is generally free from serious pest and disease problems. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. This can be prevented by planting in a location with good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.

Planting & Care for Miss Kim Lilac (Syringa pubescens subsp. patula 'Miss Kim')

Planting

Miss Kim Lilac prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic (pH 6.5-7.0) and moist. Choose a site with full sun exposure or partial shade. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball, and loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole to help the roots penetrate. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring that the soil level of the root ball is even with the soil level of the surrounding ground. Fill the hole with soil, tamp it down lightly, and water it thoroughly.

Care

Water the Miss Kim Lilac regularly, especially during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Water deeply, moistening the entire root zone. Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer. Prune the lilac immediately after blooming by removing spent flowers and dead or damaged wood. This promotes healthy growth and encourages future blooming. Cut back overgrown branches to maintain a compact shape. Mulch the plant to keep the roots cool and moist, and to suppress weed growth. In colder climates, you may need to protect the plant from harsh winter weather by covering it with burlap or other protective material.