1 of 1

Write now Article Tools

For the northern gardener having Lilac ( Syringa vulgaris) around the yard is almost a given. They thrive in our chilly climate bursting into bloom come spring to perfume the entire neighborhood. Only the humidity seems to be a bother to them but only if we don't give them the air circulation they require to stay healthy and free of that pesky powdery mildew to which they are prone.

But those poor people in mild climate areas aren't able to grow Lilacs. They haven't had the privilege of seeing Lilacs grow 8-12 feet tall and equally wide with those lovely, fragrant purple blossoms. Of course they do have orchids and other tropical plants that we northerners can keep only as house plants if we're lucky. That should be enough for both of us. Alas, many think not. Just as we long to have an palm or orange tree in our chilly landscapes the mild climate gardener longs to have a beautiful Lilac with those enchanting heart shaped, bright green leaves and those pretty cone shaped flower clusters scenting their warm air.

For the longest time mild climate Lilacs were merely a dream, something unattainable to the warm weather dweller. That dream is now a reality. A hybridizer by the name of Walter Lammerts made sure of that when he created "Lavender Lady" and "Angel White" two of the first and best mild climate Lilacs. Now there are about a dozen Lilacs which bloom without the usual winter chill.

While your average Lilac's requirements are well known those of the mild climate ones differ ever so slightly. With this in mind let us go over some tips for successfully growing the mild climate Lilac.

The arid west may have soil more hospitable to the Lilac than back east, one which is leaning to the alkaline side. While Lilacs can grow in just about any soil, heavy clay, sandy and good rich soil alike, it doesn't ever do well in soggy areas. Thus the dry, gritty soil of the arid west or southern California desert, for instance, would be pretty darn perfect for these Lilacs just as long as the gardener provides it with ample water and a good mulch around the roots especially while it gets established.

In dry climate regions the risk of powdery mildew may be reduced but it is still a threat. Planting your Lilac with plenty of room around it, therefore, will discourage this menacing ailment. You should also avoid planting the Lilac near lawns which are watered year round. In order for the mild climate Lilac to bloom abundantly it needs to be somewhat forced into a dormancy

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Tips for growing mild-climate lilacs?
We want to hear your view. Write now!