Anyone have any advice about a lilac?

At the beginning of spring I cut down much of the branches on this tree, and now it's grown into this. When is a good time to trim this down for some shape? I know there's to be more growth mid summer. It seems like with the way it grows out of control like this keeping a shape is impossible. I don't know much about this species, but if i can get this one lookin good it would be nice. I can't wait for some flowers to show up.[url=[url=]

Ever heard of the hedge cutting method? This is the only way to develop this lilac. The time to cut is 'this weekend'.

Thanks Walter, I had a feeling that might be the case with this one. I'll giver her a trim Saturday. Do you think it's alright to cut it down to like 4 leaves a branch?

Better is to cut it down to two opposite leaves, which is the last or rather first internode. Or you want to have a long branch, then you have more internodes.

Thanks again Walter, here's how it worked out. I'm hoping that one thick branch will eventually get some growth to balance out that side of the plant. Eventually I want this one to be even shorter than this. I might cut it down further next spring.
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lnatural,

I would cut further right away. The more you cut the more buds you will get. You can cut that thick one right away and that will induce more back budding. The tree will look quite ugly in the end. That's part of the game. Good luck.

Love that clump of your Walter - loads of character! Great job!