Lilacs (Syringa vulgaris ) are one of the most rewarding spring or early summer flowering shrubs. It rewards us with the most delicate fragrance and beautiful flowers. Even when not in flower, the lilac makes a nice attractive deciduous, green leaved shrub, that can form part of a hedge or shelter the garden.

Tips for Growing Lilacs

• Lilacs do not like waterlogged soil. It is important to plant in a relatively free draining soil.
• They can tolerate hot sun and heat (and can provide a nice dappled shade for the rest of the garden.
• In long periods of drought, it may be necessary to water. Make sure the water gets deep down.
• Lilacs are not heavy feeders. In good soil, a general purpose fertilizer once a year, will be adequate. Be wary of too much nitrogen as this can lead to green growth at the expense of blooms.
• Lilacs send suckers from the base. These are vigorous growers and can be separated from the main bush to create new plants. A cheap and easy way to propagate.

Lilacs Pests Problems and Diseases

• Lilacs remain relative pest free. I have never had any aphids with my lilacs.
• Lilacs can be subject to powdery mildew, especially when hot and humid. The best treatment for powdery mildew is removing affected leaves and burning, and treating with suitable fungicide.
• Do not prune at the wrong time or you will stop the flowering. Lilacs should be cut after blooming.

What Lilacs to Grow

• Common Lilac or French lilac grow about fifteen feet tall with a spread of 8-10 feet.
• Lilacs have large clusters of flowers in a pointed cone shape. They are available in varieties with pink, white, blue, purple, flowers.
• Korean lilacs are shorter more rounded with small leaves and extremely fragrant flowers.
• Japanese Lilacs called Syringia reticulata generally have cream coloured flowers and grow into small trees
• Related
  • Top 10 Spring Flowering Shrubs
  • Attract butterflies into your garden

  
  Lilacs: A Gardener’s Encyclopedia by John L. Fiala and Freek Vrugtman
  ‘The new book provides up-to-date information on the 21 known lilac species and 10 natural hybrids, as well as hundreds of the 2000 named cultivars.’

  Lilacs from Thompson & Morgan