Josee Lilac – Reblooming Fragrant Shrub

Common name:  Josee Lilac.
Height x Diameter:   4'-6'x6'.
Minimum temperature:  Hardy to -30° F.
USDA zone: 3-11.
Light:  Full Sun.
Uses: Border, hedge, specimen.
Deer Resistant: Rarely damaged by deer.
Bloomtime: Late Spring.
Bloomcolor: Violet/Lavender.
Water: Medium.

Can not ship to HI.

Planting Guide for Lilacs

Site Selection: Choose a site for your lilacs that receives full sun to partial shade, with well-draining soil. Lilacs prefer slightly alkaline soil but can tolerate a range of soil types.

Time of Year to Plant: The best time to plant llilacs is in the late fall or early spring when the soil is workable and temperatures are cooler, however, in many parts of the country you can plant year round.

Spacing: Space lilac bushes approximately 5 to 15 feet apart, depending on the variety and desired effect.

Soil Type: Lilacs prefer well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. If your soil is too acidic, you can add lime to raise the pH level.

USDA Zones: Lilacs generally grow best in USDA Zones 3–8.

Minimum Temperatures: Lilacs are cold-hardy and can survive winter temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) in Zone 3. However, they require a period of winter chill (cold dormancy) to produce flowers in the spring, making them less suited for warmer climates like Zones 9 and above.

Preparing to Plant: Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve drainage and fertility.

Planting:
1. Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the lilac's root ball.
2. Place the lilac in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
3. Backfill the hole with soil and gently press around the roots.
4. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the root ball.

Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the first year after planting. Once established, lilacs are drought-tolerant but will benefit from regular watering during dry periods.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears, following the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowers.

Pruning: Prune lilacs immediately after flowering, removing spent flower clusters and any dead or diseased wood. Thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation and overall plant health. Avoid heavy pruning, as lilacs bloom on old wood.

Acid Levels: Lilacs prefer slightly alkaline soil but can tolerate a range of pH levels.

Care Through the Seasons:

Spring: Monitor soil moisture and apply fertilizer if needed. Prune immediately after flowering.
Summer: Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot, dry periods. Mulch around the base of the plant to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Fall: Continue to water until the ground freezes. Consider applying a layer of mulch to protect the roots during the winter.
Winter: Lilacs are generally hardy, but in colder climates, you may want to protect young plants with burlap or other insulation.

Managing Pests and Diseases: Common pests include aphids, borers, and powdery mildew. Monitor plants regularly and treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent powdery mildew.

Keeping Lilacs Healthy: Maintain good cultural practices, including proper watering, fertilizing, and pruning. Regularly monitor plants for signs of pests or diseases and address any issues promptly.

Types of Lilacs: There are many varieties of lilacs available, including common lilac (Syringa vulgaris), dwarf Korean lilac (Syringa meyeri), and Japanese lilac (Syringa reticulata). Choose a variety that suits your climate and space requirements.

Choosing Lilacs: When selecting lilacs for your garden, consider factors such as bloom color, fragrance, mature size, and bloom time. Choose varieties that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions.