Lilacs are one of the most fragrant flowers in the world, and their delicate blooms can be a beautiful addition to any garden.
While they are often thought of as plants that need lots of space, growing a lilac bush in a pot is possible if you know how to care for it properly.
This blog post will discuss the steps you need to take to care of your lilac bush. We will also provide tips on keeping it healthy and looking its best. So, if you are ready to add some color and fragrance to your garden, read on!
Can You Grow Lilacs In Pots?
Lilacs are a type of shrub, and they can grow quite large. For this reason, many people think you need a lot of space to grow them.
However, growing a lilac bush in a pot is possible if you choose the right variety and provide it with the proper care. Munchkin, Pixie, and Minuet are just some of the dwarf varieties of lilac that are perfect for growing in pots.
There are also some small-growing non-dwarf species. This includes S. patula, S. pubescens, and Syringa meyeri.
Choosing The Right Container
When growing a lilac bush in a pot, it is essential to choose the right container. The container should be large enough to accommodate the roots of the plant. A minimum of 12 inches in depth and 24 inches in width is recommended.
It is also vital to ensure the container has drainage holes, as lilacs need well-drained soil. If you are using a pot that does not have drainage holes, you will need to drill some yourself.
Soil For Potted Lilacs
Clearing a spot in the garden to make room for potted lilacs is easy enough, but what type of soil should you use?
First, it’s essential to know that lilacs prefer neutral to slightly alkaline soil. They also need well-drained soil that is high in organic matter. If your soil is too sandy or clay-like, it may be necessary to amend it with some compost. Do not use peat moss, as it is too acidic for lilacs.
When you are potting your lilac bush, be sure to use a high-quality potting mix that contains some perlite or vermiculite. This will help ensure that the soil drains well and does not become waterlogged.
If your soil is not in good condition, you may also want to consider using a potting mix specifically designed for lilacs. These mixes are readily available at most garden centers and online retailers.
Caring For Potted Lilacs
Potted lilacs provide long-lasting blooms indoors and look just as lovely outdoors in the spring and summer. Proper care of potted lilacs includes regular watering, fertilizing, and pruning.
Lilacs need to be watered about once a week or when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it’s important not to let the plant sit in water. It’s also important to drainage holes in the pot that are clear so water can flow freely.
Lilacs need bright light but will tolerate some direct sunlight. If your plant is looking leggy, it may not be getting enough light. Move it to a brighter spot and prune it back if necessary.
Fertilize lilacs monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Stop fertilizer six weeks before your anticipated bloom time (early spring for most varieties). Too much fertilizer late in the season can delay blooming or produce fewer blooms.
After bloom, cut back one-third of the previous year’s growth to encourage new growth and blooms for the next season. If you want to keep your potted lilac as a houseplant over winter, cut it back by half before bringing it indoors in the fall. Pruning also helps to control the size of potted lilacs.
Can You Grow a Lilac Bush in a Pot: Conclusion
If you follow the steps above, you should have success growing a lilac bush in a pot. Be patient, as your bush may take a few years to reach its full potential.
But once it does, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful blooms and an intoxicating fragrance that will make your outdoor space feel like an oasis. Enjoy!