Growing Lilacs

Lilac bushes do not like to get their feet (the roots) wet for a prolonged period. Therefore, they do best on hillsides, slightly elevated areas, or level ground where there is good drainage. Lilac roots run deep. If you have an extended dry period of drought, water infrequently but thoroughly. The bushes do not grow well in lowlands, where water tends to collect for prolonged periods.

Weed around your lilac bushes to maintain a clean, aesthetic look. Pile mulch high around the plants, for a neat appearance, to retain some soil moisture, and to keep weeds down.

Caution: Do not make mulch so thick, that new shoots are hampered from sprouting and developing.

Lilacs will tolerate almost any kind of soil, from clay to sand, with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Like many plants, your Lilacs will benefit from compost and humus worked into the soil, to help retain some water during dry spells, and to provide nutrients.

Lilac bushes do not need a lot of fertilizer or organic feeding. Fertilize the bushes with a high Phosphorous formula in early spring, to promote blooming. Too much nitrogen in the soil will result in poor blooms. Use a general-purpose fertilizer in early summer.

Tip: Spread some fireplace ash around the drip line of your bush, for bigger and better blooms.