California lilac

California lilac should be watered evenly and deeply about once every week or 2, depending on weather conditions and soil type. Water just enough to moisten the entire root zone, and avoid heavy watering and prolonged wetness of the soil. To test the watering needs, insert a finger into the soil up to about a knuckle—if the soil is dry or damp, but not sopping wet, it is ready for more water. During extreme heat or dry conditions, water should be provided more often in order to keep the soil evenly moist and prevent wilting.

California lilac (Ceanothus ‘Minimarose’ MARIE ROSE) grows best in full sun. It prefers at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day to produce its best display of jasmine-scented blooms. Even when the plant is young, it needs ample sun to establish a strong root system and healthy growth. California lilacs produce more blooms in full sun than they do in partial shade, so planting them in a sunny the location will maximize their bloom performance.

California lilac (Ceanothus 'Minmarose' MARIE ROSE) should be pruned lightly in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Pruning should be done judiciously to avoid removing too many branches. Removing 1-third to 1-half of the longest shoots, as well as any dead or damaged branches, will help to shape the shrub and can encourage more blooms. Old, overcrowded branches can also be thinned out. To ensure the plant keeps its desired shape, prune regularly to maintain size. After flowering, stems, buds, and seedpods can be removed.