How to grow Common Lilac ( Syringa vulgaris )

Common Name	Lilac, Common lilac
Family	Oleaceae
USDA hardiness	3-7
Known Hazards	None known
Habitats	Scrub on rocky hill slopes in Europe. Found in hedges, thickets and shrubberies in Britain.
Range	E. Europe. Occasionally naturalized in Britain.
Edibility Rating	(1 of 5)
Other Uses	(3 of 5)
Weed Potential	No
Medicinal Rating	(1 of 5)
Care (info)

Syringa vulgaris PRIMROSE:

Syringa vulgaris BEAUTY OF MOSCOW:

Syringa vulgaris BLOOMERANG DARK PURPLE:

Syringa vulgaris ANDENKEN AN LUDWIG SPATH:

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Syringa Bloomerang PINK PERFUME:

Syringa vulgaris CARPE DIEM:

Syringa vulgaris MICHEL BUCHNER:

Syringa vulgaris CHARLES JOLY:

Syringa vulgaris OLIVIER DE SERRES:

Syringa vulgaris RUHM VON HORSTENSTEIN:

Syringa vulgaris ALBA:

Syringa vulgaris OGNI DONBASSA:

The Ultimate Guide to Growing, Propagating, Harvesting, and Buying Common Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)

Few plants capture the magic of spring quite like the Common Lilac (Syringa vulgaris). Known for its intoxicating fragrance and stunning blooms, the lilac has graced gardens for centuries. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about growing, propagating, and harvesting lilacs, as well as where to buy the best varieties.

Growing Common Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)

Choosing the Right Location

Lilacs love the sun. Aim for a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Good air circulation is essential to prevent powdery mildew and other fungal issues.

Soil Requirements

Lilacs thrive in well-draining, slightly alkaline soil (pH 6.5 to 7.0). Before planting, enrich the soil with compost to promote healthy growth. Avoid heavy clay soils unless amended with organic material.

Planting Tips

• Space: Plant lilacs about 5 to 15 feet apart, depending on the variety.
• Timing: The best time to plant lilacs is in the fall or early spring.
• Depth: Make sure the top of the root ball is level with the ground surface.

Water thoroughly after planting and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Propagating Common Lilac

There are several methods to propagate lilacs:

1. Suckers

Lilacs naturally produce suckers (small shoots) at the base. Dig them out carefully with some roots attached and transplant them.

2. Cuttings

Take softwood cuttings in early summer. Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone and place them in a mixture of peat and perlite. Keep the cuttings moist and out of direct sunlight.

3. Grafting

This method is usually reserved for special hybrid varieties. Grafting lilac scions onto hardy rootstocks ensures that the new plant will carry the desired traits.

4. Seeds

Although you can grow lilacs from seeds, it’s a slow process and often results in plants different from the parent.

Popular Varieties of Common Lilac

The Common Lilac boasts a wide range of cultivars. Here are a few standout varieties:

• ‘President Lincoln’: Known for its clear blue flowers.
• ‘Charles Joly’: Deep purple, double-flowered blooms.
• ‘Sensation’: Striking bi-color flowers with purple petals edged in white.
• ‘Miss Kim’: A compact, late-blooming variety with a delightful fragrance.
• ‘Primrose’: Rare yellowish-cream blooms, perfect for unique gardens.

Each variety offers something special, whether it’s a unique color, bloom time, or growth habit.

Harvesting Common Lilac

Harvest lilacs when the flowers are about three-quarters open for the longest vase life. Here are some tips:

• Use sharp, clean pruners.
• Cut stems early in the morning when the plant is hydrated.
• Remove lower leaves and place stems immediately in water.
• For longer-lasting blooms, recut stems under water and add floral preservative.

Lilacs don’t last as long in a vase as some other flowers, but their heavenly scent makes them well worth it.

Where to Buy Common Lilac

Finding high-quality lilac plants is crucial. Here are some trusted sources:

Online Nurseries

• White Flower Farm: Offers a broad selection of classic and new lilac varieties.
• Nature Hills Nursery: Ships healthy, well-established lilac plants nationwide.
• Breath of Spring Nursery: Specializes in heirloom and rare lilacs.

Local Garden Centers

Many local nurseries carry lilacs, especially in the spring. Buying local ensures your plant is suited to your climate zone.

Plant Sales and Botanical Gardens

Keep an eye on plant sales hosted by botanical gardens and plant societies. These often offer unique or hard-to-find varieties.

Final Thoughts

Common Lilacs are not just plants; they are living heirlooms, often passed down through generations. With their unmatched fragrance, beautiful flowers, and resilience, lilacs are a must-have for any garden. Whether you’re planting a single specimen or a lilac hedge, the rewards are well worth the effort.

By choosing the right variety, providing proper care, and using effective propagation techniques, you’ll enjoy the timeless beauty and scent of lilacs for years to come.

More information: https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Syringa+vulgaris