Common Purple Lilacs

Lilacs are low-maintenance, aromatic shrubs and will grow several feet tall offering good summer shade and privacy from neighbors. One thing to know about Lilacs is they do not like to have their roots wet for prolonged periods of time. Lilacs grow best on hillsides, elevated areas or level ground with very good drainage. (right) My mother's Lilac bush, the Common Purple Lilac (Syringa Vulgaris).

Growing Tips: Lilacs prefer full sun to partial shade and infrequent but thorough waterings as they have deep roots. Fertilize in early spring to promote blooming, too much nitrogen in the soil will result in poor blooming. Repeat fertilizer after blooms have disappeared.

Perennial Tips: Mulch around the plant 2" - 4" deep but not directly on the base of the plant for winter. Be aware that mice and moles are the biggest pests of Lilacs and during winters will chew on the bark of the stems near ground level and can kill your Lilac plant, you can help prevent this by keeping the mulch away from the root base.