Love Lilacs? Prepare to Plant Them This Fall.

It’s not surprising that many of us plant our lilac trees in the spring, when enchanted by their perfume elsewhere.  But fall is one of the best times to plant these traditional flowers, and by preparing this summer, you’ll be ready when it’s time to install them. Autumn is a good planting time for several reasons.  First, after the summer growing season, lilacs are dormant, like many other plants.  This means less transplant shock, as the plant is not expending energy on producing new shoots and leaves.

Choose an area that receives plenty of sunlight.  While mature lilacs can survive in the shade, a lack of sunlight will inhibit blossoming; too little sun and your lilacs will not bloom at all.  Consider the size of the lilac tree you would like to plant, and research online nurseries for the variety you’re interested in.  Dig the hole slightly larger than the root ball, and stock up on compost and mulch.  When your lilac arrives in the fall, plant immediately.  Surround the roots with a mixture of compost and soil,  and water deeply.  Mulch the surface several inches deep to protect from frost and dry weather. Lilacs prefer soil to be slightly alkaline; consult with your local garden center to choose an appropriate fertilizer.