How to Propagate Lilac Plants
Lilac is a type of plant from the genus Syringa, which is native to Eastern Europe and the temperate regions of Western Asia. Lilacs are popular among gardeners for their aromatic, brief-blooming flowers and easy propagation. If you already have lilacs of your own and are seeking more, propagation can be a great alternative to purchasing more plants. The best way to propagate lilac plants is using grafts from its offshoot system. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Mature lilac plant with offshoots
- Clippers
- Pail or container
- Sunlight
- Water
Instructions
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Propagating Lilacs
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1
Select the right plant. Lilac tends to clump as it grows, so you need to find the mother plant. Locate the mother plant by finding the largest plant whose shoots are at least 1 to 2 feet tall. The mother plant is also identifiable via its root system--it will be attached to the main root. Mother plants of this description make the best donors.
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2
Using clippers, cut new shoots from the main plant. These new shoots should be no more than a foot long and a pencil-width in diameter. Cut about 1 or 2 inches from where the shoot meets the base.
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3
Place the new shoots upright into a water-filled container or pail. Wait until the shoots begin sprouting tiny roots of their own before transplanting them to soil. If you prefer, dip the shoots into rooting hormone before placing them in water.
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4
Plant the rooting shoots in soil or compost that drains drains well and receives plenty of sunlight. Lilacs need abundant sunlight and a regular water supply to grow.
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5
Water the transplant thoroughly until a new plant begins to emerge and thrive. Keep the soil moist but not drenched.
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Tips & Warnings
Propagate and transplant in cooler weather when the survival rate is higher.
Compost and fertilizers can be used to encourage healthier growth as needed.
Do not over-water your lilacs or transplants.
Do not remove more than three to five shoots from the mother plant as these shoots ensure the survival of the mother lilac from season to season.
