Ask the Answer Person: When will Decorah's lilac blooms be at their peak?

(Jeff from Minnetonka, MN writes,"We are looking forward to spring and seeing an additional lilac bloom in Decorah, but I want to make sure our timing is right. What weekend should we visit Decorah for the best lilac bloom?")

The Answer Person says: "We contacted the Iowa State Extension Horticulture Department to find out when the lilacs in and around Decorah should be in full bloom, and they said, 'It's difficult to pinpoint an exact time because it is so weather-dependent.' Their best prediction is mid-May to late May--the earlier happening if we get 7 to 10 days of warmth in the near future and the later happening if the weather continues to remain on the colder side."