CS55 – Lilac Renaissance

Lilacs . . . “In springtime, love is carried on the breeze.” Brian Morley fell in love with lilacs, so much so that he “bought the farm,” both literally and figuratively, and now grows and collects many varieties of lilacs as well as creates new hybrids. For many of us, the fragrance of lilacs is the very breath of Spring and perhaps a strong connection to times past. Today, however, lilacs are making a huge comeback across the globe. From the United States to Russia, Japan, and Germany, there are thriving lilac growers all over the world working to preserve rare and old varieties and creating new and exciting ones. Join this excellent presenter as he talks about the modern-day renaissance of the lilac.

• Learn more about the International Lilac Society, their extraordinary Lilacs Journal, and sources of quality lilacs.
• Get recommendations for the best varieties beyond the old-fashioned purple.
• How to plant and care for lilacs.
• You won’t want to miss seeing Brian’s slideshow! It’s full of incredible images of many special, rare lilacs as well as those from his own collection.

Born in the Kansas City area, Brian Morley first learned his love of gardening and horticulture from his parents and has been obsessed ever since. “I grew up working with flowers as a second nature, so fine floral design is like breathing to me.” He opened Bergamot & Ivy 30 years ago (bergamotandivy.com) and also does interior design. Brian’s love of plants and flowers continues through designing cut flower arrangements at Bergamot & Ivy. On his farm outside Kansas City, he loves exploring the natural world, growing many of the blooms sold at the shop, and collecting and cultivating lilacs. He has a BFA in design from the University of Kansas.