
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.
What is the name of the lilac tree that bears more blooms than other plants?
What is the difference between a Japanese lilac tree and a cherry tree?
When should I prune a syringa reticulata tree?
When do Japanese lilac trees bloom?
What is the best street tree?
Is Japanese Lilac a shrub?
Is a Japanese lilac the same as a lilac?
See 2 more

Do lilac trees need a lot of water?
Watering your lilac plant is recommended once every 10 to 14 days from from spring until blooming ends. Lilacs respond best to deep, infrequent watering. Make sure that your planting area or container drains well. These plants do not like wet feet and will not bloom if over watered.
Can you overwater lilacs?
Lilacs can be attacked by mold and fungus if they are overwatered. Overwatered lilacs might develop root rot. Yellow, pale, or wilted leaves are a sign your lilacs have received too much water. If your lilacs are overwatered, wait until the soil dries out to a depth of 3–4 inches (7.5–10 cm) before watering again.
Does lilac like wet soil?
Good drainage is needed since lilacs do not like "wet feet" and will not grow well in poorly drained soil. In areas that are very wet a Berm can be constructed and the lilacs planted within the Berm.
When should I fertilize my Japanese lilac tree?
A fertilizer for lilac bushes can be applied in early spring but a better way to reinvigorate these tired old plants is by pruning out 1/3 of the old canes for three successive seasons. This will allow fresh growth to emerge while still permitting the blooms to grow.
How do you know when a lilac needs water?
Lilacs are water-loving plants but do not like to sit in water. Healthy leaves will have a lustrous shine, look pert and not be puckered. In the summer if the leaves lose their shine, borders of leaves brown a little or the leaves look limp, droopy or soft looking, it is a sign that they need to be irrigated.
How often should I water a lilac tree?
How to Water Lilacs. After planting, check plants often and water whenever the top inch of soil becomes dry, usually once or twice per week. Count to 10 while you water to make sure you're giving each lilac plant enough moisture. (Leaves will begin to droop if the plant is getting too dry.)
Why is my lilac plant dying?
The reason for lilac shrubs dying is because of fungal disease due to slow draining soils. Lilacs require well draining soil to stay healthy and if the roots are in boggy soil then they are susceptible to root rot and other fungal diseases which cause the lilac leaves to turn brown and dying branches to drop off.
Are coffee grounds good for lilacs?
Best Fertilizer For Lilacs Fertilizing lilacs with a high phosphorus formula in early spring promotes blooming. Grass clippings and coffee grounds can be used as a good source of nitrogen. Use sparingly, as too much nitrogen in the soil will result in poor blooms.
Why are the leaves on my lilac turning brown?
It is caused by two fungi: Verticillium dahliae and Verticillium albo-atrum. There is no cure for a plant with this fungal infection. Individual branches turn brown and die suddenly due to the fungi blocking the vascular system of the branch, cutting off water and nutrient movement.
Should you deadhead Japanese lilac?
If possible, deadhead spent blossoms to encourage additional growth the following year. It is also important to remember to fertilize your tree yearly with compost, composted manure, or a balanced chemical fertilizer and to ensure that the soil pH is close to neutral, which lilacs prefer.
Why is my Japanese lilac not blooming?
Without enough sunlight, the plant often will not bloom. Lilac bushes prefer full sun. Transplant shock. You may just have to give your lilacs another year to get over this.
Why didn't my Japanese lilac tree bloom this year?
So, if your tree was pruned in the late summer or early fall last year or in early spring this year, the flower buds would have been cut off. Fertilizing – feeding the thyme beneath the tree could encourage vegetative growth rather than bloom production depending on the type of fertilizer used.
Why are my lilac leaves turning brown and curling?
Lilac leaves curl and turn brown due to leafminer damage. Brown edges are seen on Lilac leaves when the plant gets less water than required. Brown edges are also seen due to herbicidal damage. Lilac plant gives out beautiful, light blue colored flowers.
Why is my lilac plant dying?
The reason for lilac shrubs dying is because of fungal disease due to slow draining soils. Lilacs require well draining soil to stay healthy and if the roots are in boggy soil then they are susceptible to root rot and other fungal diseases which cause the lilac leaves to turn brown and dying branches to drop off.
What causes curling leaves on lilac?
Curling lilac leaves can be caused by numerous things, but certain insects such as the leaf miner insect and certain diseases such as powdery mildew are two of the most common reasons why this occurs. It could also be a sign that your lilac bush isn't getting enough water or sunshine.
Why are my lilac bushes leaves turning brown?
It is caused by two fungi: Verticillium dahliae and Verticillium albo-atrum. There is no cure for a plant with this fungal infection. Individual branches turn brown and die suddenly due to the fungi blocking the vascular system of the branch, cutting off water and nutrient movement.
Japanese Lilac Tree Care in Detail
We should water Japanese lilac tree once after planting, and then water it every 10 days or so, and then drain it in time to avoid ponding and rotten roots. When the peak growth season from April to June comes, pay attention to increasing water penetration two or three times a month to prepare for flowering.
Japanese Lilac Tree Propagation
Some Japanese Lilac Trees increase roots rapidly in a glass of water on a sunny windowsill, however this exercise isn't always commonly encouraged for lilacs. If you prefer to supply it a try, take a slicing from a wholesome lilac and vicinity the stem in a clear or amber glass or jar with 1 to two inches (3-5 cm.) of water.
Japanese Lilac Tree Varieties
The Japanese lilac tree, or Syringa reticulata, is categorized as each a massive shrub and a small tree. This decorative has creamy white plants that fill the summer time air with their ample floral fragrance. As its identify suggests, the Japanese lilac is native to Japan.
Japanese Lilac Tree Benefits
If you choose an magnificent tree for a parkway or street, plant these beauties between the sidewalk and roadway. These Japanese Lilac Tree can cope with salt and pollution, and they make a ideal alternative for city or business spaces. Large parks will additionally advantage from the addition of the Ivory Silk.
Japanese Lilac Tree Care FAQs
Japanese Lilac Tree grows 20 to 30 toes tall with a unfold of 15 to 25 feet.
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 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 ...
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.
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 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.
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.
How much sun do lilacs need?
These fragrant shrubs can be grown in zones 3 through 8 and are very easy to care for. To obtain the best blooms, lilacs require at least 6 hours of full sun.
How to keep a flower from dying?
Step 2 - Water at the base of the plant. Water the base of the plant and allow the soil to dry out again before the next watering. Step 3 - Avoid watering during flowering. Overhead watering during peak blooming time can cause your blooms to decline quickly.
Why is my lilac not blooming?
These plants do not like wet feet and will not bloom if over watered. Too much water can diminish the oxygen in the soil by filling in air pockets with water, which chokes the roots of the lilac. Witling of the plant is the first sign that the lilac is overwatered.
Can lilacs survive winter?
Lilacs can withstand winter conditions better than most plants. If it is a dry winter in your area, occasional watering can benefit the roots. Watering around the base of the plant actually keeps the roots warmer than the dry soil.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 ...
How to fill a hole in a garden with water?
Replace the soil around the root ball with the added compost and tamp down with your hands or heels to collapse any large air pockets. When the hole is filled halfway with soil water in and allow the water to percolate down into the soil before filling in the rest of the soil. With the excess displaced soil, create a 3-inch high moat around the root ball to act as a catch for water. Fill the moat with water and allow it to percolate down and refill it once more.
How to boost nutrient quotient in soil?
Amend the planting hole and soil with compost or well aged manure to boost the nutrient quotient.
How to get rid of air pockets in a tree?
Replace the soil around the root ball with the added compost and tamp down with your hands or heels to collapse any large air pockets. Mulch the base of the tree with an organic material to feed the soil and reduce moisture lost to the atmosphere.
When do Japanese lilacs bloom?
Japanese lilac, known botanically as Syringa reticulata, is a species of flowering tree or large shrub that throws warm white blooms in late spring and early summer. Japanese lilac is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 7, thrives in a full sun to partial shade exposure and evenly moist soil.
Is Lilac a Shrub or a Tree?
Lilac is classified as a large deciduous shrub or a small multi-stemmed tree. If left to its own devices, a lilac plant produces suckers that form multiple woody stems or thin trunks with light brown or gray bark. Therefore, regular pruning is necessary to remove stems that grow around the central trunk.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 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.
How much sunlight does a lilac need?
Plant lilacs where they receive at least eight hours of full sunlight each day.
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.
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.
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.
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 best street tree?
Cultivars include: 'Summer Snow': A smaller tree (20 feet high), this plant is even more tolerant of pollution than the species plant, making it an excellent street tree. 'Chantilly Lace': This is one of a few choices available with variegated foliage. In this case, the leaves bear creamy yellow margins.
Is Japanese Lilac a shrub?
It is more resistant to powdery mildew disease than the common, shrub-form lilacs ( Syringa vulgaris ).
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.
