How to Select and Care for Lilacs

Lilacs not only come in a great variety of colors (more than you might think), but they also have an amazing smell that brings you back to being outside in the springtime or being back in your grandmother’s garden. Learn how to select and care for lilacs in this video by Better Homes and Gardens:

Lilacs come from one common species with hybrids originating in the 19th century. Colors generally range from pink and magenta to blue-purple, pink-purple and other purple shades, but some lilacs come in white, primose yellow or peach colors. The Sensation variety is a bright bi-color with purple edged in white. You may want to experiment with a Korean lilac, a tree lilac or some of the new hybrids that have a longer blooming period.

Lilacs are super-easy to grow (they almost thrive on neglect) and live to be around 100 years old. They like full sun and well-drained soil. Prune them right after they bloom; keep in mind that old wood will not bloom as much. Rejuvenate an old lilac shrub by cutting it down to 6-8 inches. You’ll sacrifice a few years of bloom, but it will come back stronger than ever. You can also selectively cut a few canes down to 6 inches so your lilac will continue to have some blooms.

Powdery mildew will appear in wet weather. Don’t overwater, and make sure your lilac has good circulation. They do not have many pest problems, but deer will eat them in certain situations.

Lilacs grow best where winters are quite cold as cold weather helps set the buds. They do not do as well in the Deep South or on the West Coast. If you live in a warm area, try experimenting with a Korean lilac.