If you’ve ever experienced lilac season in Northern Michigan, you know just how magical it can be. This time of year, the roadsides and yards are lined with towering lilac bushes, their blooms spilling over in soft shades of lavender, deep purple, and creamy white. The air is thick with their sweet, unmistakable fragrance—honestly, it’s better than any candle or diffuser you could buy.

I couldn’t resist cutting a few stems to bring indoors, and let me tell you, my house smells incredible. It’s like Mother Nature’s version of an air freshener—fresh, floral, and completely free.

Lilac season is fleeting, though. Just a couple of weeks, and then they’re gone. Luckily, the cooler weather we’ve had lately will actually help extend their bloom time a bit (even if I’m more than ready for some warmer days!).

If you’re tempted to bring some lilacs into your own home, I’ve got a couple of quick tips to help you make the most of them and keep those gorgeous blooms fresh for as long as possible:

1. Pick Before They Fully Bloom

When you’re cutting lilacs, don’t wait until every little floret is open. Look for blooms that still have a few buds at the top that are tightly closed or a deeper, darker purple. This means the lilacs haven’t peaked yet—and they’ll continue to open up and thrive once you bring them inside, giving you a longer-lasting bouquet.

2. Prep the Stems for Maximum Hydration

Lilacs are thirsty. If you want them to last more than a day or two in a vase, you need to help them drink up. After cutting, either smash the bottom of the stems with a hammer or make several vertical cuts up the stem with a sharp knife or garden shears. This gives them more surface area to absorb water and keeps them hydrated and happy.

Whether you’re styling a table centerpiece or just adding a little seasonal joy to your kitchen counter, lilacs bring such a nostalgic, natural beauty into the home. Take a deep breath, enjoy that scent, and soak in this fleeting but oh-so-lovely time of year

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