I am in zone 5 and just cut down my lilac that was infested with black ants and old. It looks so bare where it was. I want to know if we can plant something right away or should we wait till spring?

Part of me says since it was infested we should wait but then once the old branches and trunk were removed, it eliminated the ants.

So, what's your take on it? I was planning to visit Winding Creek tomorrow and look at some bushes. I'd like one that grows tall and flowers. Rose of Sharon is my choice but I hear they can be testy.

I also want to know if I should plant in the same hole? We cleaned it out pretty good but of course we couldn't get all the root but did manage to pull the ball out.

Thanks!