Lilacs

Propagation

Q. We have lilac trees in our back yard and our house is up for sale. When we move is it possible to cut branches off these trees and replant them at our new house? Or should we just dig one up and bring it with us? I love the lilacs and will miss them. Would appreciate any answer you can give me.

A. Lilacs like other hardwood perennials bushes and trees are difficult to propagate successfully from stems. It can be done though using the most tender green healthy cuttings you can find. Rather I recommend that you dig up an entire bush.

When we moved my dad wanted to take some of the old lilacs from the backyard which he had gotten from relatives so they were not only beautiful but sentimental. Dig up a very wide space around the base going at least as far out as the branches reach. Go down deeply circling the bush deeper and deeper. When all soil has been cut to 2 feet deep carefully dig up the plant from all sides getting as much root system as you can. Lay onto a large piece of plastic and move to the new location ASAP. Plant into a prepared hole and water in very well with a slow deep dripping.

You may need to stake the bush for a couple months until the roots take hold. Do not allow to dry and if sunny loosely drape some covering over it to reduce the sun glare and transpiration of water which stress the roots. Do not fertilize until it is well-established.

General Information
Lilacs were introduced in France in the late 1800s at which time hybridizing was started by the horticulturists. We now have fragrant flowers with colors ranging from white and pale yellow to all shades of pink mauve and purple. Most reach about 8' high and 6' wide. They can be grown solo or bunched as a hedge.

They prefer moist humus-rich well-drained soil in sun or light shade. They love cold winters which improve flowering. Prune right after flowering. Take out all dead yellow and weak growth thus enabling more light and nutrients to get to the strong stems. This too will encourage much more flowering the next spring.