When to Plant Lilac Bushes

Lilac bushes grow in a variety of sizes and colors when properly planted.

Fragrant lilac bushes are popular landscaping plants. Though the word lilac is associated with a light purple color, the flowers grow in shades of white and pink, as well. Lilac bushes are found in many varieties, and may grow from 4 to 30 feet tall depending upon species. Because the versatile bushes may be trimmed and trained within a specific area of the yard, lilacs are planted for privacy, shade and beauty. Knowing when to plant lilac bushes is important to keeping the flowers healthy and beautiful.

Planting Site

Lilac bushes may be grown even in northernmost areas of the United States. The plant is hardy up to USDA hardiness zone 3, so it will survive all but the harshest of winters. Before planting lilac bushes, clear the area completely of weeds, which will sap nutrients from the plant. Once weeds have been removed, apply a 1-inch layer of wood or straw mulch to prevent the weeds from reappearing.

Sunlight

Choose an area of the yard that receives full to partial sunlight through most of the days. Lilac bushes need at least six hours of sun daily during spring and summer to produce healthy, beautiful flowers. Lilac flowers that grow in darker colors, rather than the more common pastels, may benefit from receiving partial sunlight during the day. Too much direct sunlight may fade some of the color from the blossoms.

Soil

Lilac bushes grow best in soil that is slightly alkaline, with a pH balance measuring somewhere near 7.0. Use a soil testing kit to check soil pH prior to planting. Lilacs need fertile, well-draining soil to grow. Heavy clay soil is not recommended for planting lilac bushes.

Planting Specifications

Lilac bushes will begin producing flowers in spring. The flowers are rather short-lived, blooming for two to four weeks even in optimal growing conditions. Lilac bushes may be planted in early spring or fall, though it is recommended to plant them in the fall to enjoy flowers the very next spring. Grow lilac bushes 5 to 15 feet apart to give each plant plenty of room to grow. Prior to planting transplants, soak lilac bushes in water for 15 minutes so they will be moist and healthy when they go into the ground.

References

• The Old Farmer's Almanac: Lilacs
• Lottah Nursery: Culture & Care of Lilac Bushes

Resources

• North Dakota State University Extension; Questions on Lilacs; Ron Smith
• Arbor Day Foundation: Zone Changes