It is hard to pass by blooming lilac. You want to inhale its rich aroma and take a few pictures for memory. But many do not stop there, and in order to gift a beautiful bouquet to loved ones, they thoughtlessly strip the bush like a linden...
Is it permissible to break lilac branches? Botanist Mikhail Tretyakov explains.
— There is a common misconception that if you break lilac branches, it will bloom better. In reality, there is little good in this. Lilac, like any plant, begins to bloom better when it enters a state of stress, and breaking branches is a true stressor. The plant senses its imminent and possible death, so it wants to reproduce, directing all its energy towards the formation of generative buds and, consequently, the production of seeds.
In addition to stress, this is also a traumatic process. When branches are broken, significant fractures occur, and the bark is severely damaged. Pieces of it are torn off, increasing the likelihood of the bush being infected by fungal and bacterial diseases. All this will ultimately lead to the plant becoming ill and ceasing to delight those around it with blooms for many years.
How to properly collect lilac?
— If your desire to pick lilac is irresistible, and you do not want to harm the plant, then you should not break the branches but cut them with sharp pruners, scissors, or a knife.
Moreover, this should be done in such a way that at least two small green shoots are left on the branches after you, which can form new shoots with flower-bearing stems the following year. This will be less traumatic for the plant. However, lilac bouquets do not last very long, so it is better to enjoy its blooming in its natural environment.
Will I get in trouble for this?
For the cutting and damaging of plantings (which includes breaking branches, unprofessional pruning of the crown that reduces it by more than 20%, stripping bark, mechanical or chemical damage to the tree, from which it partially or completely loses its ability to grow), significant fines are provided.
An individual can be fined from 70 to 700 euros for damaging plantings, while a legal entity can be fined from 140 to 1400 euros. Moreover, in some cases, paying the fine does not exempt one from the obligation to compensate for the damage caused.
According to the editorial staff of bb.lv, it is better not to take risks and under no circumstances break lilac in your own yard or city park. Enjoy the magnificent view from a distance. To immerse yourself in the magical aroma - do not be lazy, just come closer!
