Growing Lilacs is a pleasure in zones 3-8. Yes, here are some warm weather lilacs such as Miss Kim and Sensation that will grow in warmer zone 8 climates. Lilacs are easy to grow and the fragrant flower spikes last weeks. Some varieties bloom for 6 weeks or more!
The lilac bushes are hardy plants and require minimal maintenance once established. Depending upon the type they grow from 5 to 15 feet tall and 5-6 feet wide. When growing lilacs, you prune to the shape you desire. Trim as a hedge, circular bush or cut the lower branches to make superb specimen tree. They attract butterflies and deer resistant.
Growing Lilacs Specifics
Most lilacs need a good cold period each year to flourish. Check your growing zone and the lilac plant you obtain. They need a good 6 hours of sun to produce flowers. If you are in zone 7-8 then place the lilacs in areas they are protected a bit from the late afternoon sun.
They will grow in many soil types but prefer rich fertile soil. When growing lilac give them plenty of water when young. However, make sure the soil is fast draining because they do not like wet feet. If the area you are planting is prone to wetness make sure you place large rocks at the bottom of the hole before planting to drain the water away. If too wet they will not bloom!
Growing Lilacs Planting
When planting add some good compost to the soil. Dig the hole twice as large as the container. Put compost in the bottom and around the sides when you plant your lilac. Topsoil is NOT compost. Mulch around the top of the plant.
Space lilacs from 5 to 12 feet apart depending upon the variety. Do not over fertilize the lilac or the blooms will suffer. We recommend once a year to add some 8–9-month time released fertilizer.
Each spring mulch to top of the plant for the first couple years. Epic Grower recommends non-colorized mulch or bark to help retain moisture and protect the roots.
Lilac colors range from white to dark purple. They include violet, blue, lavender, pink and magenta colors. Some are solid colors and others have stripes. They are all delicate looking small flowers on spikes.