Growing Tips
- Water every two to four days until established, and once a week thereafter, in the absence of rain.
- Fertilize each spring before blooming begins.
- Mulch with organic material to help suppress weeds and hold in moisture.
How do you propagate a Lilac Japanese tree?
The easiest way to grow a Japanese tree lilac is to purchase a live plant from a nursery or garden center. If you still want to give home propagation a try, we’ll cover rooting cuttings below, and then explain how to transplant a young bare root plant or potted tree into your yard.
What kind of soil do Japanese lilac trees need?
Since it needs well-drained soil, mix compost into the ground when you plant Japanese lilac trees. The compost will loosen the soil, promoting proper moisture flow. This is particularly important in clay-rich soils.
When to plant Lilacs in Japan?
The best time to plant Japanese lilac tree is in the late winter or early spring. Late fall is also an acceptable planting time. Although more resistant to powdery mildew disease than are the common, shrub-form lilacs (Syringa vulgaris), it is still a good idea to space them far enough so that they get good air circulation.
How do you root a lilac tree in a hole?
Loosen the root ball with your fingers and place the Japanese lilac inside the hole you dug for it. For a grafted tree, the scar should be at least two inches above the soil. For a bare root plant, create a bump of soil at the bottom of the hole and fan the roots out over it.
When do Japanese lilac trees bloom?
What is the difference between a Japanese lilac tree and a cherry tree?
What is the name of the lilac tree that bears more blooms than other plants?
When should I prune a syringa reticulata tree?
Is a Japanese lilac the same as a lilac?
Is a Japanese lilac a deciduous tree?
Do lilac trees have mildew?
See 2 more
Are Japanese lilac trees easy to grow?
These trees are very easy to transplant and rarely suffer transplant shock. They tolerate urban pollution and thrive in any well-drained soil. Given a location in full sun, Japanese tree lilacs seldom suffer from insect and disease problems. Japanese tree lilacs are rated for USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 7.
When Should Japanese lilacs be planted?
springThe best time to plant a Japanese lilac tree is in the late winter or early spring. Late fall is also an acceptable planting time.
How long does it take for Japanese tree lilac to grow?
3-4 yearsIt takes 3-4 years of growth for most varieties of japanese tree lilac to bloom. Also, If it is transplanted, it will not bloom that same season. Too high or low pH of the soil can lead to no flowering; neutral to alkaline soil (pH 7.0 or a little higher) is beneficial to its growth and blooming.
How do you start a lilac tree from a branch?
Fill a pot with potting soil, sand and perlite. Moisten the mixture lightly, then use a stick or your pinky finger to make a planting hole in the mixture. Dip the bottom of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in the hole, then pat the potting mix lightly around the base of the cutting so it stands up straight.
What is the lifespan of a Japanese lilac tree?
around 40 to 50 yearsThough their life span is somewhat brief at around 40 to 50 years, they make up for it with moderately fast growth and an impressive degree of resilience and adaptability.
Should you prune a Japanese lilac tree?
Lilac Japanese tree, including reticulata and pekingensis. These trees should be pruned in early spring, before the sap starts to flow (March). This will remove some spring flowers. Pruning can also be done in summer, after the leaves are full size.
Do Japanese lilac trees need a lot of water?
Requires full sun and deep watering every 7-10 days.
How do you care for a Japanese lilac tree?
Growth is best on moist, well-drained, fertile soils and full sun. Japanese tree lilac is adaptable to a variety of soils in full sun sites. Trees are easily transplanted and adaptable to poor, compacted or dry soils. Japanese tree lilac tolerates some drought and prefers cool summers.
Are Japanese lilac tree roots invasive?
Root System on Lilac Lilac roots aren't considered invasive and as long as you leave enough space between the tree, or shrub, and the structure, there is little risk from planting lilacs near foundations. Lilac roots generally spread one and one-half times the width of the shrub. A distance of 12 feet (4 m.)
Can you plant lilac cuttings directly in the ground?
You can plant them directly into the ground. To plant your freshly dug lilac sucker in the ground, dig a hole deep enough, loosen up the soil some by digging around with your shovel. Place your lilac sucker or shoot into the hole and fill back with the loose soil. Gently firm it in with your foot.
Is there a difference between a lilac tree and a lilac bush?
The difference comes down to the amount and placement of stems. Lilac bushes (AKA shrubs) are defined in the typical manner, with multiple woody stems coming up from the base of the plant. In contrast, most lilac trees have one single woody stem: the trunk.
Where is the best place to plant lilacs?
full sunWhere to Plant Lilacs. The ideal spot to plant lilacs is in an area with full sun (at least 6 to 8 hours per day)—give them too much shade and they may not bloom. Lilacs also like slightly alkaline, moist, well-drained soil.
How close to a house can you plant a Japanese lilac tree?
Minimum Planting Distances: 15 feet from house or building.
Is Japanese tree lilac invasive?
Indeed, while many of the most picturesque garden plants are not native to the Midwest, the majority are not invasive. For example, hosta, smoke tree, boxwoods, Japanese tree lilacs, dwarf shrub junipers, and serviceberry are all non-native to the region but are not known to be invasive.
How big does a Japanese lilac get?
about 25 feet tallJapanese Tree Lilac will grow to be about 25 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 20 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 5 feet from the ground, and is suitable for planting under power lines.
Are Japanese lilac tree roots invasive?
Root System on Lilac Lilac roots aren't considered invasive and as long as you leave enough space between the tree, or shrub, and the structure, there is little risk from planting lilacs near foundations. Lilac roots generally spread one and one-half times the width of the shrub. A distance of 12 feet (4 m.)
Syringa reticulata
There’s a house on my street with a large Japanese tree lilac ( Syringa reticulata) growing in the middle of the yard.
What Is Japanese Tree Lilac?
As you probably guessed from its common name, the Japanese tree lilac is native to Japan, specifically the northern part of the country, and gardeners began cultivating this deciduous tree there as early as 1876, according to the experts at Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest in Clermont, Kentucky.
Propagation
While you can propagate lilacs from cuttings, your success rate may be low. But you can always give it a try, and it’s the best way to get an exact clone of the parent plant – unlike attempting to grow it from seed.
How to Grow
When it comes to growing conditions, this gorgeous tree likes well-draining, slightly acidic soil, but it can adapt to anything with a pH range between 5.0 and 7.5.
Growing Tips
Water every two to four days until established, and once a week thereafter, in the absence of rain.
Pruning and Maintenance
Japanese lilac trees are fabulously low-maintenance plants, but they do appreciate a yearly trim.
Cultivars to Select
When it comes to this species, there are many options to choose from. Here are a few of my favorite Japanese tree lilac cultivars.
What is a Japanese Lilac Tree?
Japanese lilacs are trees or very large shrubs that grow to a height of up to 30 feet (9 m.) with a spread of 15 to 20 feet (4.5-6 m.). The genus name Syringa means pipe, and refers to the plant’s hollow stems. The species name reticulata refers to the network of veins in the leaves. The plant has a naturally attractive shape and interesting, reddish bark with white markings that give it year-round interest.
How long does a Japanese lilac tree bloom?
Japanese Lilac Information: What Is A Japanese Lilac Tree. A Japanese tree lilac ( Syringa reticulata) is at its best for two weeks in early summer when the flowers bloom. The clusters of white, fragrant flowers are about a foot (31 cm.) long and 10 inches (25 cm.) wide.
How long does it take for a tree to bloom?
The trees bloom in clusters that are about 10 inches (25 cm.) wide and a foot (31 cm.) long. You might be reluctant to plant a flowering tree or shrub that takes up so much space in the garden and only blooms for two weeks, but the timing of the blossoms is an important consideration. It blooms at a time when most spring-bloomers are ...
What is the name of the tree with reddish bark?
The species name reticulata refers to the network of veins in the leaves. The plant has a naturally attractive shape and interesting, reddish bark with white markings that give it year-round interest. The trees bloom in clusters that are about 10 inches (25 cm.) wide and a foot (31 cm.) long. You might be reluctant to plant a flowering tree ...
Can Japanese lilacs be transplanted?
These trees are very easy to transplant and rarely suffer transplant shock. They tolerate urban pollution and thrive in any well-drained soil. Given a location in full sun, Japanese tree lilacs seldom suffer from insect and disease problems. Japanese tree lilacs are rated for USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 7.
Can a Japanese Lilac tree grow in a window?
Both forms have a lovely shape that looks great in shrub borders or as specimens. Growing Japanese lilac trees near a window allows you to enjoy the flowers and fragrance indoors, but make sure you leave plenty of room for the tree’s 20 foot (6 m.) spread.
How to propagate a Japanese Lilac?
Propagation from a cutting is the best way to reproduce your Japanese lilac. The Japanese lilac tree, or Syringa reticulata, is classified as both a large shrub and a small tree. USDA planting zones 4 to 7 are ideal for growing and propagating a Japanese lilac. Take a 4- to 6-inch softwood leafy cutting in the spring late spring to early summer. ...
Where does the Japanese Lilac tree grow?
As its name suggests, the Japanese lilac is native to Japan. It grows abundantly in cool climates but can suffer in hot climates.
How to plant a cutting in a pot?
Replace the bag when you are finished watering. Make a 2-inch deep hole in the center of your planting pot; you can use a pencil, dowel or your index finger. Place the cutting in the planting pot and press the soil down around it.
How to root lilacs from cuttings?
Roll the bottom inch of your lilac cutting in hormone rooting powder for soft cuttings. Make a 2-inch deep hole in the center of your planting pot; you can use a pencil, dowel or your index finger. Place the cutting in the planting pot and press the soil down around it. Water the pot until the soil is evenly damp.
How to grow a sage bush in a pot?
Use a pair of sharp pruning shears and make the cut at a 45-degree angle. Chose a cutting that has green, supple wood and at least 2 leaves on it. Fill an 8- to 10-inch planting pot with equal parts sand and potting soil or purchase a rooting mix from your local garden store.
How long does it take for a cutting to grow in a pot?
After four to six weeks , you will notice tiny white roots just below the surface of the soil at the edge of the pot. When this occurs, you can transplant your cutting outside. Dig a hole that is large enough to accommodate the root ball of your newly rooted cutting. Chose an area that gets full sun.
When to take a cutting of a ripe hardwood?
Take a 4- to 6-inch softwood leafy cutting in the spring late spring to early summer.
How tall is a lilac tree?
Common lilac is a large shrub or small tree in the genus Syringa and the olive family Oleaceae. A lilac shrub-like tree grows 8 to 16 ft. (2.4 – 5 m) tall and 6 to 12 ft. (1.8 – 3.6 m) wide. This fast-growing tree has a vase-shaped or round crown, and the dense foliage provides shelter and shade.
When is the best time to transplant a lilac tree?
The best time to transplant lilac trees is in the fall after the hot summer has passed and before winter arrives.
What Do Lilac Tree Flowers Smell Like?
Lilac flowers give off a strong, sweet fragrance that fills the air. The deep, rich floral aromas have hints of vanilla and are like the fragrance of roses. However, if the scent of lilac is too over-powering, then some lilac cultivars have little or no scent.
Why do the leaves on my lilac tree look like they have been scorched?
Suppose the leaves on your beautiful lilac tree look like a blowtorch has scorched them. In that case, it’s probably lilac bacterial blight. The bacterium Pseudomonas syringae pv. Syringae causes severe leaf wilt and browning. The best way to deal with this infection is to remove all affected twigs and foliage and destroy them.
What are lilac borers?
Lilac borers are destructive when they are in the larval stage as long caterpillars. The hungry grubs feast on woody parts of lilac trees. You may notice signs of lilac borers as piles of sawdust on the ground, small holes in branches, and yellowing leaves.
How many petals does a lilac have?
The attractive lilac flowers are conical blooms made up of highly fragrant individual flowers. Each tiny flower has four to five petals. Lilac blooms measure between 6” and 8” (15 to 20 cm) long.
How long do lilac trees bloom?
Lilac trees bloom in late spring, and the blooms last for up to four weeks. Their large heart-shaped leaves and dense foliage can provide an ideal privacy fence. Lilac trees are also relatively easy to care for once established in the landscape.
How tall do lilacs grow?
They offer a strong fragrance and often grow up to 20 feet tall. The most fragrant lilacs from this variety include: Charles Joly – Magenta flowers that are early bloomers. Monge – Deep reddish-purple colored flowers appearing in the mid-season. Firmament – Blue flowers in the mid season.
What zone do lilacs grow in?
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, lilacs do best in planting zones 3 or 4 through 9. They need cold—even freezing—winters. If you’re in zones 8 or 9, you’ll need to look for a specialty variety that better tolerates warm climates. These “warm climate varieties” include:
How many different colors of lilacs are there?
You may find seven different colors of lilacs in total, and these plants make wonderful additions to your home garden. The blooms will attract lovely hummingbirds and butterflies, and the plants themselves add a dose of beauty to any yard. The beautiful lilac flowers cluster together as they grow on a bush or tree.
Why is the lilac tree so popular?
Its blooms are fragrant and gorgeous, and the lilac’s scent is unmistakable. In fact, it’s commonly used in perfumes and fragrant lotions because it’s known to trigger pleasant memories and happy feelings.
Why do lilacs have white spots?
Too much water, or a particularly hot and humid summer, can cause lilacs to develop powdery white mildew. Although the mildew isn’t going to kill your plant, pruning the bushes is the easiest way to treat and prevent the spread of disease. About Brit Haines.
How big do lilac bushes get?
Shrubs can exceed 20 feet in height and live long lives, and even small lilac bushes will become full- to medium-sized trees in no time. Therefore, consider the size of your plant when you choose your spot. Find a place that offers good air circulation and drainage as well as sunshine.
How much sunlight does a lilac need?
Plant lilacs where they receive at least eight hours of full sunlight each day.
What are the problems with Japanese lilacs?
Many problems with Japanese tree lilacs only arise if planted in a less-than-ideal location. If you plant in a shady location, for instance, they can develop powdery mildew. You can identify powdery mildew by the white powdery substance on leaves and stems.
Why are my Japanese lilacs wilting?
These Japanese tree lilac problems cause wilting and premature leaf drop. On the other hand, too much nitrogen fertilizer can bring on bacterial blight. Keep your eye out for young shoots that develop black stripes or leaves that develop black spots. Flowers may also wilt and die.
How big does an ivory silk lilac get?
The Ivory Silk cultivar is loved by many gardeners for its impressive size and glorious flower clusters. The plant can grow to 30 feet (9 m.) tall and 15 feet (4.6 m.) wide. The cream-colored blossoms arrive in summer. They are very showy and last two weeks on the tree. Though most lilac blossoms are fragrant, ...
What is a lilac bush?
Printer Friendly Version. Image by vili45. Ivory silk tree lilacs do not resemble any other lilacs you might have in your garden. Also called Japanese tree lilac, the ‘Ivory Silk’ cultivar is a large, rounded shrub with very large clusters of off-white flowers.
What pests dig tunnels in the leaves of lilacs?
If you provide adequate irrigation and fertilizer, you’ll keep the borers at bay. Another pest to look out for is lilac leaf miners. These bugs dig tunnels in the leaves in early summer. When the caterpillars emerge, they eat all the foliage. If you catch these pests early, just pick off the miners by hand.
Is ivory silk a fragrant lilac?
Though most lilac blossoms are fragrant, the Ivory Silk flowers are not. Ivory Silk Japanese lilac thrives in cooler areas, specifically in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 6 or 7. It grows in the form of a pyramid in its early years but later expands to a rounded form. Ivory Silk tree care includes picking an ...
Can lilacs die from bacterial blight?
Flowers may also wilt and die. If your plant has bacterial blight, treating problems in Ivory Silk lilac involves pulling out and destroying infected plants. You’ll also want to reduce fertilizer and thin your plants. As with other lilacs, a few pests can cause problems in Japanese tree lilacs. Lilac borer is one of them.
When do Japanese lilac trees bloom?
Bloom time: A Japanese lilac tree flowers a bit later, giving you color in early summer (rather than late spring). This fact is useful as you plan out the sequence of blooms in your garden.
What is the difference between a Japanese lilac tree and a cherry tree?
Bark: The Japanese lilac tree's bark is a pretty brown, studded with lighter lines (called "lenticels"), as on cherry trees, whereas the common lilac's bark is an uninspiring gray.
What is the name of the lilac tree that bears more blooms than other plants?
Amur lilac tree ( Syringa reticulata subsp. amurensis) Cultivars are also available. The cultivars generally bear more blooms than the species plant and, for this reason, may be preferred over the latter.
When should I prune a syringa reticulata tree?
To this end, prune off low branches each year in early spring until you expose as much trunk as you desire. Such pruning is especially important in the early years when you are training your plant to become a tree.
Is a Japanese lilac the same as a lilac?
While common lilac shrubs and Japanese lilac trees belong to the same genus ( Syringa ), there are important differences between them, beyond the fact that you can more easily train the latter into tree form.
Is a Japanese lilac a deciduous tree?
The Japanese lilac is a deciduous tree-form lilac attractive enough to serve as a specimen. It has a moderate growth rate, an upright growing habit, and a rounded shape. It is a mid-size tree belonging to the olive family and grown for the panicles of white flowers that are 6 to 12 inches long, which it bears for about two weeks in early summer.
Do lilac trees have mildew?
With its superior resistance to powdery mildew disease, the tree 's leaves add to its beauty. Though these lilac plants are resistant to powdery mildew disease, it's still a good idea to space them far enough so that they have good air circulation.
