How to Grow Lilacs
by Ken Lain, the mountain gardener
Snippet: How long does it take for a lilac to bloom? Best time to plant lilacs. Do lilacs need full sun or shade? How to prune old lilac bushes. Common lilac diseases. Lilac fragrance and size. Why is my lilac not blooming? Best fertilizer for lilacs.
The intoxicating scent of a lilac in full bloom is the true herald of spring in the mountains. These rugged, cold-hardy shrubs are beloved for their dense clusters of tubular flowers and heart-shaped foliage. Whether you are planting a screen for privacy or a specimen near a window to catch that heavenly perfume, lilacs are a generational investment that only get better with age. From the classic deep purples of 'Ludwig Spaeth' to the crisp whites of 'Mount Baker,' there is a variety perfectly suited for every backyard. Available Lilacs online now.
7 Helpful Tips on Growing Lilacs
While often associated with English cottage gardens, these survivors actually find their roots in the rocky hillsides of Eastern Europe and Asia.
· Botanical Name - Syringa
· Common Name - Lilac, Common Lilac, French Hybrid Lilac
· Plant Type - Deciduous shrub
· Mature Size - 8–15 feet tall and nearly as wide, depending on variety
· Sun Exposure - Full sun (at least 6+ hours)
· Soil Type - Well-drained, fertile soil
· Soil pH - Neutral to slightly alkaline
· Bloom Time - Mid to late spring
· Flower Color - Purple, lavender, white, pink, and magenta
· Hardiness Zones - 3 to 7
· Native Area - Europe and Asia
How to Grow Lilac Plants
Lilacs are remarkably tough, but they are picky about two things: light and drainage. If you get those right, they will reward you for decades.
Light
Lilacs are sun worshippers. To get the best bloom production and prevent powdery mildew, plant them where they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight. Shady spots result in "leggy" growth and very few flowers.
Soil
These shrubs prefer "sweet" soil (alkaline). In our mountain soils, they thrive, but they absolutely demand drainage. Lilacs hate "wet feet"; if the roots sit in water, the plant will decline quickly.
Water
New plantings need regular deep soaking to establish a strong root system. Once established, lilacs are quite drought-tolerant, but they appreciate a deep drink during our dry June spells to set next year’s flower buds.
Temperature and Humidity
Lilacs actually require a period of winter chill to set their blooms, which makes them perfect for our higher elevations. They prefer the lower humidity of the West, as it helps keep leaf diseases at bay.
Fertilizer
For spectacular blooms, use Watters 7-4-4 All Purpose Plant Food. Feed them on the "Holiday Schedule":
· Easter
· Independence Day (July 4th)
· Halloween
This organic-based food builds the "bones" of the plant rather than just forcing soft, green growth.
Pruning
The secret to a great lilac is pruning immediately after the flowers fade. If you wait until winter, you will cut off next year's blossoms. Every year, remove about one-third of the oldest, thickest canes right to the ground to encourage fresh, vigorous growth from the base.
Common Pests
Powdery mildew is the most frequent visitor, it looks like a dusting of white flour on the leaves. It rarely kills the plant but looks unsightly. Ensure good airflow and keep water off the foliage to prevent it.
Lilac Varieties
· Miss Kim: A compact Manchurian lilac that fits perfectly in smaller landscapes and has a spicy fragrance.
· Sensation: Unique bicolor blooms featuring purple petals edged in crisp white.
· Bloomerang: A revolutionary variety that blooms in spring and then again in late summer.
Landscaping
Lilacs make an exceptional living fence or "snow fence" because of their dense structure. Plant them in a row for a fragrant screen, or use a single French Hybrid as a focal point near your patio where you can enjoy the scent on a spring evening.
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