How to Keep Your Petunias Thriving All Summer Long

Petunias are an Easy to Grow and Care for Flowering Plant

Start your petunia journey by purchasing small, already-started plants from your local greenhouse. These young plants offer a head start, making it easier to enjoy vibrant blooms throughout the season. Opt for a variety of colors to create stunning mixed displays in large planters, a perfect way to showcase their beauty.

Once home, choose large planters with good drainage to accommodate your mix-and-match approach. Fill them with a high-quality potting mix enriched with compost or slow-release fertilizer. Plant the petunias about 12 inches apart, gently loosening their roots before placing them in the soil. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the roots.

To keep these beauties going, place the planters in a spot with full sun, ideally 6-8 hours daily, as petunias thrive in bright conditions. Water consistently, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged—check daily, especially during hot weather, and water when the top inch feels dry. Deadhead spent blooms weekly by pinching them off to encourage new flowers and prevent seed production, ensuring a continuous display.

Feed your petunias every 1-2 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) to boost growth and color. Trim leggy stems by about one-third in mid-summer to promote bushiness and fresh blooms. Watch for pests like aphids or spider mites, and rinse them off with a gentle water spray if spotted.

With this simple care routine, your colourful petunias will flourish from June through September, adding charm to your outdoor space all summer long.

Car Camping Tent Setup | Did it Work

KassDays Tests the KAMPKEEPER SUV Car Tent: A Game-Changer for Car Camping?

In their YouTube video "Car Camping Tent Setup | Does it Work," the KassDays channel dives into the world of car camping with a hands-on review of the KAMPKEEPER SUV Car Tent, a tailgate awning tent designed to transform your vehicle into a cozy campsite. This article explores the setup, features, and performance of this innovative camping solution, highlighting its potential to enhance outdoor adventures for car campers.

The KAMPKEEPER SUV Car Tent is designed for convenience, offering over 110 square feet of shaded space that attaches directly to the tailgate of an SUV, sedan, or 4WD vehicle. The KassDays video showcases the setup process, which is surprisingly straightforward. With just one pole and a few stakes, the tent can be pitched in about 10 minutes, even for beginners. The video demonstrates how the tent secures snugly around the vehicle’s hatch, with extra bungee cords ensuring a tight fit. This ease of setup is a major draw for campers looking to minimize hassle, especially after a long drive to a campsite.

Key features highlighted in the video include the tent’s spacious design, which provides ample room for coolers, chairs, and camping gear, making it ideal for solo travelers or small groups. The tent’s 150D PU800mm water-repellent treatment and seam-sealed construction proved effective during a rainy camping trip, keeping the interior dry even with the hatch open. A large screen window with a zippered storm flap offers ventilation and views, while mesh side panels keep bugs at bay. The KassDays team notes the tent’s UV-resistant silver coating, which helps maintain a comfortable temperature under the sun, a critical feature for summer camping.

The video also touches on the tent’s versatility. Its humanized design allows campers to zip up the awning for privacy or leave it open for airflow, catering to various camping scenarios like festivals, sports events, or road trips. While the tent lacks a built-in floor, the KassDays team suggests pairing it with a tarp for added protection, a practical tip for keeping gear clean and dry. The tent’s compatibility with a range of vehicles makes it a flexible choice for car campers who don’t want to invest in a rooftop tent or a full RV setup.

However, the video points out some considerations. The tent requires a relatively flat surface to stake properly, which may limit its use in rugged terrain. Additionally, while spacious, the tent’s size is somewhat dependent on the height of the vehicle’s hatch, which could affect headroom in smaller cars. Despite these minor drawbacks, the KassDays team praises the tent’s durability and ease of packing, as it folds neatly into its original bag for storage.

The KAMPKEEPER SUV Car Tent, as showcased by KassDays, offers a compelling alternative to traditional tent camping. Its quick setup, weather resistance, and spacious design make it a strong contender for car campers seeking convenience without sacrificing comfort. For those inspired to try it, the tent is available on Amazon, and the KassDays YouTube channel provides a vivid look at its real-world performance. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a newbie hitting the road, this car tent could be the key to unlocking stress-free outdoor adventures.

The Inner Debate of Decision Making

The Inner Debate: Navigating the Storm of Decision-Making

When faced with a tough decision, the mind becomes a battleground where competing thoughts clash, each vying for dominance. Should you take that new job across the country or stay in the comfort of the familiar? Should you invest your savings in a risky venture or play it safe? This internal debate can feel overwhelming, like a mental tug-of-war with no clear winner. Understanding this process, what it resembles, and how to manage it can help you make clearer, more confident choices.

The Anatomy of an Inner Debate

Picture your mind as a bustling courtroom. On one side, there’s the voice of ambition, arguing passionately for bold change. On the other, caution stands firm, warning of risks and uncertainties. Meanwhile, emotions like fear, excitement, or guilt act as jurors, swaying the verdict with their unpredictable input. This internal dialogue isn’t just a simple back-and-forth—it’s a chaotic symphony of logic, intuition, and feeling.

The debate often unfolds in stages. First, there’s the spark: a choice that demands attention. Then comes the gathering of evidence, where you weigh pros and cons, recall past experiences, and imagine future outcomes. Finally, there’s the stalemate, where indecision creeps in, leaving you stuck in a loop of “what ifs.” This mental churn can be exhausting, especially when the stakes feel high.

What It’s Like: A Storm at Sea

The inner debate is akin to navigating a ship through a stormy sea. Each argument is a wave crashing against you—some gentle, others forceful enough to knock you off course. Logic tries to steer the ship, but emotions like fear or hope whip up gusts that threaten to veer you into uncharted waters. The horizon—your decision—remains elusive, obscured by the fog of doubt.

Just as a storm tests a sailor’s skill, the inner debate tests your ability to balance competing forces. Too much focus on logic, and you might ignore your gut instincts. Lean too heavily on emotion, and you risk being swept away by impulse. The challenge lies in finding equilibrium, steering through the chaos toward a destination that feels right.

Why It’s So Hard

The difficulty of an inner debate stems from cognitive and emotional overload. Your brain is wired to avoid loss, so it amplifies risks, making safe options seem more appealing even if they’re less rewarding. At the same time, the fear of regret—choosing wrong—can paralyze you. Add in external pressures like societal expectations or advice from others, and the debate becomes a cacophony.

It’s also worth noting that humans aren’t always rational decision-makers. Cognitive biases, like anchoring (fixating on the first piece of information) or the sunk cost fallacy (sticking with a bad choice because of past investment), can distort the debate. Emotions further muddy the waters, as excitement might inflate optimism, while anxiety exaggerates threats.

Strategies to Navigate the Debate

While the inner debate can feel like a storm, there are ways to calm the waters and chart a clearer course. Here are practical strategies to help you manage the process:

1. Externalize the Debate: Write down your thoughts. Create a pros-and-cons list or journal about your feelings. This act of externalizing can declutter your mind, making it easier to see the bigger picture. It’s like laying out a map to plot your course.

2. Set a Decision Deadline: Indecision thrives in open-ended timelines. Give yourself a reasonable deadline to decide, forcing your mind to prioritize and focus. Think of it as a lighthouse guiding you to shore before the storm worsens.

3. Test the Waters: If possible, experiment with small steps toward a choice. For example, if you’re debating a career change, try a side project or talk to someone in the field. These low-stakes actions provide real-world data, quieting speculative “what ifs.”

4. Consult Your Values: Reflect on your core values—what matters most to you in the long term? Aligning your decision with your values acts like a compass, helping you navigate when logic and emotion pull you in different directions.

5. Limit Information Overload: While it’s tempting to research endlessly, too much information can fuel indecision. Curate your inputs—focus on a few trusted sources or perspectives to avoid drowning in data.

6. Embrace Uncertainty: No decision is foolproof. Accepting that uncertainty is part of the process can reduce the pressure to find a “perfect” choice. It’s like sailing with the knowledge that not every wave can be predicted.

7. Seek a Neutral Sounding Board: Talking to a trusted friend or mentor can provide clarity, but choose someone who listens without pushing their own agenda. They’re like a calm harbor, offering perspective without adding to the storm.

Small Town Parades: A Heartwarming Contrast

Small Town Parades: A Heartwarming Contrast to Big City Spectacles

By Alberta Blogger Magdelene

When you think of parades, you might picture the grandeur of big city events—massive floats, celebrity appearances, and crowds stretching for miles. But there’s something uniquely special about small town parades that offers a refreshing change of pace. These local celebrations, often tied to holidays, harvest festivals, or community milestones, bring a warmth and intimacy that big city spectacles can’t match. Here’s why small town parades, like the ones you’ll find across Alberta, are a delightful antidote to their urban counterparts.

A Sense of Community Connection

In a small town parade, you’re not just a spectator lost in a sea of strangers—you’re part of the event. The crowd is filled with familiar faces: your neighbor waving from a homemade float, the local high school band playing a slightly off-key but enthusiastic tune, or the town’s volunteer firefighters proudly driving their polished engine. Everyone knows someone marching, dancing, or tossing candy from a pickup truck adorned with streamers.

This sense of connection is what sets small town parades apart. In big cities, parades are often polished productions, with professional performers and corporate sponsors dominating the scene. You’re there to watch, not to participate. But in a small town, the line between audience and performer blurs. You might find yourself cheering for your cousin’s 4-H group or laughing as the local hardware store owner rides by on a lawnmower decked out in Christmas lights. It’s personal, and that makes it unforgettable.

Charm in the Imperfection

Small town parades aren’t about perfection—they’re about heart. The floats are often handmade, cobbled together with hay bales, crepe paper, and a lot of creativity. You won’t see the high-tech animatronics of a big city parade, but you might see a group of kids dressed as superheroes, proudly waving from the back of a flatbed trailer. The bagpipe band in your photo, for instance, might not have the precision of a professional ensemble, but their spirited performance, complete with kilts swaying in the Alberta breeze, carries a charm that’s hard to beat.

Big city parades, while impressive, can feel impersonal and overly choreographed. Every detail is planned, from the synchronized dancers to the meticulously designed floats. Small town parades embrace the opposite: the joy of spontaneity. A tractor might break down mid-parade, leading to good-natured laughter from the crowd. A dog might dart into the procession, stealing the show for a moment. These unscripted moments are what make small town parades so endearing.

A Celebration of Local Culture

Small town parades are a vibrant showcase of local identity. In Alberta, you might see nods to the region’s agricultural roots—think vintage tractors, rodeo queens, or floats celebrating the canola harvest. There’s often a strong sense of heritage, with groups like the bagpipe band you mentioned paying homage to the town’s Scottish or Celtic roots. These parades aren’t trying to appeal to a global audience; they’re a love letter to the town’s history and people.

Contrast this with big city parades, which often aim for broad appeal. They’re designed to attract tourists and media attention, featuring generic themes or commercial brands that don’t reflect the local flavor. In a small town, the parade is for the community, by the community. It’s a chance to celebrate what makes the town unique, whether that’s a quirky tradition, a beloved local business, or a shared passion for bagpipes.

Accessibility and Intimacy

One of the biggest draws of small town parades is their accessibility. You don’t need to camp out hours in advance to get a good spot, and you won’t be jostling with thousands of people for a glimpse of the action. You can stroll up to Main Street, find a cozy spot on the curb, and feel like you’re part of the celebration. Kids can run up to catch candy thrown by the local scout troop, and you might even chat with the mayor as they walk by, waving to the crowd.

Big city parades, on the other hand, can feel overwhelming. The crowds, the noise, the barricades—it’s a production that keeps you at a distance. Small town parades invite you in. They’re intimate, relaxed, and welcoming, making them a perfect outing for families, seniors, or anyone looking for a low-key but joyful experience.

A Reminder of What Matters

In a world that often feels fast-paced and disconnected, small town parades offer a chance to slow down and reconnect. They remind us of the value of community, the beauty of imperfection, and the joy of celebrating together. Whether it’s the sound of bagpipes echoing down a quiet street or the sight of kids waving from a float made of hay bales, these parades capture the spirit of small town life in a way that’s both nostalgic and forward-looking.

So, the next time you’re craving a break from the hustle and bustle, head to a small town parade in Alberta. Bring your camera, snap a photo of that bagpipe band, and let yourself be swept up in the simple, heartfelt magic of it all. You’ll leave with a smile—and maybe a handful of candy, too.

Ducks on the Sheep River Okotoks

Drifting in Serenity: Ducks on the Sheep River in Okotoks

On a sunlit afternoon in Okotoks, Alberta, the Sheep River offers a serene backdrop for one of nature’s simple pleasures: watching ducks glide effortlessly across the water. The image captures a tranquil moment—two ducks bobbing gently on the river’s surface, one perched on a log while the other paddles nearby, their movements a quiet symphony of paddling and drifting. This peaceful scene, set against the lush green riverbank, invites us to pause and appreciate the beauty of these gorgeous ducks and the calming rhythm of their lives on the Sheep River.

Identifying the Ducks of the Sheep River

The ducks in the image are likely a pair of mallards, a common species in the Okotoks area and across North America. The duck in the foreground, with its vibrant green head, chestnut-brown chest, and grayish flanks, is a male mallard, often called a drake. The iridescent green head is a giveaway, shimmering in the sunlight as he paddles near a partially submerged log. The other duck, perched on the log with a mottled brown and white appearance, is likely a female mallard. Her more subdued plumage provides excellent camouflage, helping her blend into the surrounding reeds and grasses while nesting. Mallards are dabbling ducks, meaning they feed primarily on the surface of the water, tipping forward to nibble on aquatic plants, insects, and small fish, which the Sheep River provides in abundance.

Mallards are well-suited to the Sheep River’s ecosystem. The river’s gentle current, shallow sections, and abundant vegetation create an ideal habitat for these ducks to forage and rest. They’re often seen in pairs or small groups, and their adaptability allows them to thrive in both urban and rural settings. In Okotoks, where the Sheep River winds through town, these ducks are a familiar sight, delighting locals and visitors alike with their graceful presence.

The Peacefulness of Watching Ducks

There’s something inherently calming about watching ducks on the water, as captured in this image. The way they bob and paddle, seemingly without a care, invites a sense of stillness in the observer. On the Sheep River, the ducks’ movements are almost hypnotic—the male mallard glides effortlessly, his webbed feet paddling beneath the surface, while the female perches on the log, occasionally dipping her beak into the water to preen or sip. Every so often, they drift with the current, their bodies rising and falling with the gentle ripples, only to paddle back upstream with a few leisurely strokes. It’s a quiet dance, one that unfolds without rush or urgency, reminding us of the beauty in life’s simple rhythms.

The Sheep River enhances this peaceful experience. The soft rush of the water, the rustling of the reeds along the bank, and the occasional quack or splash from the ducks create a natural soundtrack that soothes the soul. In Okotoks, where the river runs through parks and green spaces, it’s easy to find a spot to sit and watch. Whether you’re on a bench near the river trail or simply standing on the bank, the sight of these ducks can melt away the stresses of the day. Their unhurried pace and the way they seem perfectly at home in their environment offer a gentle nudge to slow down and appreciate the moment.

Why the Sheep River is a Duck Haven

The Sheep River is more than just a picturesque spot—it’s a vital habitat for wildlife like these mallards. The river’s clear waters and diverse ecosystem support a rich food web, from aquatic insects to small fish and plants, all of which sustain the ducks. The surrounding wetlands and grassy areas provide nesting sites, especially during the spring breeding season, when female mallards seek out hidden spots to lay their eggs. The river’s accessibility also makes it a great place for birdwatching, with mallards often joined by other species like mergansers, teals, or even the occasional Canada goose, as seen in previous images from this area.

For the ducks, the Sheep River offers a balance of safety and sustenance. The logs and rocks in the water, like the ones in the image, serve as resting spots where they can preen, dry off, or simply take in their surroundings. The dense vegetation along the banks provides cover from predators, allowing the ducks to relax and go about their daily routines. This harmony between the ducks and their environment is part of what makes watching them so captivating—they’re a living testament to the resilience and beauty of nature in Okotoks.

Mexico as a Tourist Exploring the History Unveiling Teotihuacan

Unveiling Teotihuacan: A Journey Through History and Mystery

The ancient ruins captured in the images transport us to Teotihuacan, one of Mesoamerica’s most iconic archaeological sites, located just 40 kilometers northeast of modern-day Mexico City. With its towering pyramids, sprawling avenues, and intricate murals, Teotihuacan stands as a testament to the ingenuity of an ancient civilization that thrived between 100 BCE and 650 CE. For visitors walking its stone pathways today, the site offers a profound opportunity to learn about its history—a history filled with awe-inspiring achievements and enduring mysteries that continue to baffle archaeologists and historians. Let’s explore what we know about Teotihuacan and the enigmatic questions that still linger.

Discovering Teotihuacan’s Historical Grandeur

Teotihuacan, often referred to as the “City of the Gods,” was once one of the largest cities in the world, with a population estimated at 125,000 at its peak around 400 CE. The images showcase its most iconic structures: the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, which dominate the landscape along the Avenue of the Dead, a 2.5-kilometer-long central thoroughfare. The Pyramid of the Sun, standing at 65 meters tall, is the third-largest pyramid in the world, while the Pyramid of the Moon, slightly smaller at 43 meters, offers panoramic views of the city from its summit.

Walking through Teotihuacan, as seen in the images, visitors can feel the scale of this ancient metropolis. The Avenue of the Dead is lined with smaller platforms and residential compounds, once home to the city’s diverse inhabitants, including artisans, priests, and merchants. The Temple of the Feathered Serpent, located at the southern end of the avenue, is adorned with intricate carvings of the deity Quetzalcoatl, a symbol of creation and renewal in Mesoamerican culture. The temple’s detailed stone heads, protruding from the pyramid’s facade, hint at the city’s rich artistic tradition.

Teotihuacan was a cultural and economic hub, its influence stretching across Mesoamerica. The city’s artisans produced obsidian tools, pottery, and vibrant murals, many of which depict deities, rituals, and mythological scenes. One mural, found in the residential complex of Tepantitla, shows a paradise-like scene with a goddess overseeing a joyful gathering—a rare glimpse into the spiritual beliefs of the Teotihuacanos. Trade networks extended as far as the Maya region, with evidence of Teotihuacan-style artifacts found in sites like Tikal in Guatemala, underscoring the city’s far-reaching impact.

Learning Through Exploration

A visit to Teotihuacan is a journey through time, offering countless lessons about ancient Mesoamerican life. The site’s layout reveals a highly planned urban center, with a grid system aligned to celestial events. The Pyramid of the Sun, for example, is oriented to mark the solstices, suggesting that astronomy played a central role in the city’s design. Visitors can climb the steep steps of the pyramids, as many do in the images, to experience the same vantage points that ancient priests might have used during rituals, feeling a connection to the past.

Excavations have uncovered evidence of a multi-ethnic society, with neighborhoods inhabited by people from different regions, such as the Oaxaca Barrio, where Zapotec-style ceramics were found. This diversity highlights Teotihuacan’s role as a melting pot, attracting migrants and traders who contributed to its cultural richness. The site also offers insights into daily life: residential compounds reveal apartment-style living with shared courtyards, while artifacts like grinding stones and cooking vessels provide a glimpse into the diets and routines of the city’s inhabitants.

The Mysteries That Persist

Despite centuries of study, Teotihuacan remains shrouded in mystery, with many questions lacking definitive answers. One of the greatest enigmas is the identity of its founders and rulers. Unlike other Mesoamerican civilizations, such as the Maya, Teotihuacan left no written records of its kings or dynasties. No royal tombs have been conclusively identified, and the city’s hieroglyphic system, if it existed, remains undeciphered. Who built this massive city, and who governed it? The absence of clear evidence has led to speculation—some suggest a theocratic elite, while others propose a more communal form of leadership, but no consensus exists.

Explore Your Surroundings, Get Out There!

Get Out There and Explore: Open Your Eyes to the World Around You

Life can get busy, and it’s easy to fall into a routine—same places, same sights, same old, same old. But every now and then, it’s worth stepping out of that bubble and exploring what’s out there. Whether it’s a quirky shop, a quiet nature trail, or a bustling recreation centre, there’s something magical about opening your eyes and really taking in the world around you.

I was reminded of this recently while looking at a photo from a visit to All Through the House in Okotoks—a spot filled with vintage treasures, from old Coca-Cola signs to colourful “Drinks” lettering hanging above a collection of antiques. It’s the kind of place where you can’t help but slow down and look closer. There’s a rusted metal scale on a stool, a wooden crate labeled “Canadian Apples,” and walls covered in nostalgic posters. It’s a feast for the eyes, and it got me thinking: there’s so much to see if we just take the time to look.

That’s what exploring is all about—whether you’re wandering through a shop like that one, hiking a forest trail in Alberta, or checking out a local recreation center. It’s about being present and noticing the details. On a nature walk, you might spot a bird flitting through the trees or feel the crunch of leaves underfoot. At a Rec centre, you might discover a new class to try or hear the laughter of kids at a community pool. Each place has its own story, its own little details waiting for you to discover them.

Think about the last time you went somewhere new. Maybe it was a hike, like the one I saw in a video from Alberta the other day—a lone hiker with a blue backpack, walking through a misty forest, just taking it all in. Or maybe it was a shop like the one in Okotoks, where you could spend hours looking at old tin signs and vintage lamps. What did you notice? What made you smile? That’s the beauty of exploring—it’s not just about the destination, but about the act of seeing, really seeing, what’s in front of you.

So, get out there. Take a drive to a nearby town and poke around a local shop. Lace up your hiking boots and hit a trail, whether it’s a rugged wilderness path or a gentle park loop. Sign up for a class at your rec center—maybe pottery or yoga—and meet some new faces. Wherever you go, keep your eyes open. Look for the little things: the way the light hits an old wooden crate, the sound of birds in the trees, the smell of fresh air or the hum of a busy community space.

The world is full of wonders, big and small, and they’re all waiting for you to find them. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore—today’s the perfect day to start.

Spring's Finest Flowers, Poppies and Lilacs Steal the Show

Spring’s Finest: Poppies and Lilacs Steal the Show

Spring in the Calgary area is a magical time, and nothing says it better than the return of stunning flowers like poppies and lilacs. As the days warm in late May, these blooms transform gardens and backyards into a canvas of colour and fragrance, delighting anyone who loves nature’s comeback after winter. Let’s dive into why these flowers are spring superstars!

Poppies: A Burst of Sunshine

Picture this: vibrant orange and yellow poppies swaying in the breeze, their papery petals catching the sunlight. These flowers, often seen in early spring, are a sight to behold with their bold colors and delicate, fern-like leaves. Poppies thrive in sunny spots and well-drained soil, making them a favorite in Okotoks’ Zone 3b gardens. Their fleeting beauty—blooming for just a few weeks—adds a sense of wonder, reminding us to savor the moment. Do you love their cheerful hues as much as I do?

Lilacs: Fragrant Elegance

Then there are the lilacs, with their clusters of purple and white blooms that fill the air with a sweet, nostalgic scent. Whether deep violet or soft white, lilacs bring a touch of elegance to any garden. Their heart-shaped leaves and tall shrubs make them a standout, and in late May, they’re at their peak, attracting bees and admirers alike. The fragrance alone can transport you to a peaceful place—maybe a memory of spring walks or a quiet moment in your backyard. What’s your favorite thing about lilacs?

Why Spring Flowers Steal Our Hearts

For me, spring flowers like these are a highlight of the season. After months of gray, their co
lors—poppies’ fiery tones and lilacs’ soft pastels—feel like a gift. The fresh scent of lilacs in the air and the sight of poppies dancing in the sun spark joy and renewal. In the Calgary area, where winters can be long, these blooms signal warmer days and new beginnings. Whether you’re tending your garden or just soaking in the views, spring flowers bring a sense of awe that’s hard to beat.

Capture the Magic
Next time you’re out in Okotoks or beyond, take a moment to enjoy these spring beauties. S
nap a photo, breathe in the lilac perfume, or simply bask in the poppies’ glow. Spring doesn’t last long, so let’s celebrate every petal while it’s here!

Easy-to-Grow Lilacs: Choosing the Right Variety for Your Garden

Lilacs are a spring favorite, filling gardens with color and fragrance in late May. If you’re in the Calgary area (Zone 3b), you’ll want varieties that are hardy and low-maintenance. Here’s a quick guide to the easiest lilacs to grow and how their growth habits differ.

Easiest Lilacs to Grow

For beginners, Common Lilac (Syringa vulgaris) is a top pick. It’s hardy to Zone 3, loves full sun, and thrives in well-drained soil. With fragrant purple or white blooms, it needs minimal care—just prune after flowering to keep it tidy. Another great option is the ‘Miss Kim’ Lilac (Syringa pubescens subsp. patula ‘Miss Kim’). It’s compact (5-7 feet tall), hardy to Zone 3, and offers lilac-purple flowers with a lighter scent. It’s also disease-resistant and tolerates urban conditions well. Both handle Calgary’s cold winters and need little fuss beyond occasional watering during dry spells.

Growth Habits: Spreaders vs. Stayers

Lilacs vary in how they grow. Some, like the Common Lilac, are suckering types—they spread by sending up new shoots (suckers) from their roots, creating a thicket over time. This can lead to new growth several feet away, perfect if you want a natural hedge but tricky in small spaces. To control spread, dig up suckers or mow them down. Others, like ‘Miss Kim’ and Japanese Tree Lilac (Syringa reticulata), are non-suckering. They grow as individual shrubs or small trees, staying more contained—ideal for tidy gardens. Japanese Tree Lilacs, reaching 20-30 feet, have a tree-like form with creamy white blooms and don’t produce runners, making them a neat focal point.

Why It Matters

Choosing between spreading or non-spreading lilacs depends on your space and goals. Want a low-maintenance privacy screen? Go for a suckering Common Lilac. Prefer a standalone beauty? Pick ‘Miss Kim’ or a Japanese Tree Lilac. Either way, these easy-growers will bring spring joy to your garden with minimal effort!