common lilac

The common lilac is a hardy plant that does not need frequent watering. Water your common lilac deeply when its soil feels dry about 1 inch below the surface. Water it once a week with 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm) of water. Watering in the morning is best to reduce risk of fungal diseases that can be caused by wet foliage at night. Mulch in early spring will help to retain moisture and keep the soil cool in summer.

Common lilac (Syringa vulgaris) requires full sun exposure for best flowering and growth. It should ideally receive 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day, including at least 4 hours of direct morning sunlight. In areas with hot climates, providing shade to the common lilac in the afternoon can help it remain healthy. When grown in areas with limited sunlight, common lilacs may not bloom as profusely, though they can still develop a modest flowering.

Common Lilacs should be pruned in the early spring just before the plant begins to awaken and bud. Pruning should be moderate and only done to remove any dead, diseased or damaged growth. Prune to shape and thin out older wood. Remove branches growing further than 4 to 6 feet from the base of the plant. All pruning cuts should be made at a 45 degree angle, just above a leaf or lateral bud, at a slight angle so that water does not collect on the pruned area and rot the stem. Pruning should be restricted to no more than 1/3 of the total plant length in any 1 season. Care should be taken to prevent the plant from becoming too sparse, as too much pruning can cause the plant to become overgrown with upright shoots and reduce flowering.