common lilac

Common lilacs should be watered deeply and regularly during the active growing season. The best time to water is early in the morning before the temperature rises. About 1 inch of water per week is usually enough during the growing months of March through October. In periods of extreme heat or drought, extra water may be needed. Monitor the soil moisture and water when the top inch feels dry. Make sure not to overwater, as this can cause root rot, but use enough water at each watering so that moisture reaches down to the deepest roots. It's best to water lilacs at the base of the plant, avoiding any foliage, as wet leaves can lead to fungal diseases.

Common lilac (Syringa vulgaris 'Andenken an Ludwig Spath') requires full sun, meaning at minimum 6 hours per day. Plant these in an area that will receive sun at least 6-8 hours per day for the best results. Too much shade will result in fewer blooms and weakened plants. Lilacs prefer well-drained soils, ideally on the slightly acidic side.

Common lilac (Syringa vulgaris 'Andenken an Ludwig Spath') should be pruned twice a year, once after blooming in the spring and again in late summer. Pruning should be done moderately - no more than 1/3rd of the stem should be cut off in 1 session. Removing dead, diseased, and damaged branches should be the first priority before any major shaping is done. This plant requires regular pruning to keep it from becoming too open and unruly. When pruning, always use sharp scissors or pruning shears to make the cleanest cut possible.