It has a moderate growth rate, an upright growing habit, and a rounded shape.

The best time to plant a Japanese lilac tree isin the late winter or early spring.

Late fall is also an acceptable planting time.

Japanese lilac

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

With its superior resistance to powdery mildew disease, the tree’s leaves add to its beauty.

It will survive if grown in partial sun, but it won’t produce as many flowers.

Soil

Since it needs well-drained soil, mix compost into the ground when youplant Japanese lilac trees.

Japanese lilac

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

The compost will loosen the soil, promoting proper moisture flow.

This is particularly important in clay-rich soils.

Water

Keep the ground evenly moist, but check that it drains well.Mulchwill help with water retention.

Syringa reticulata

vili45 / Getty Images

Suitable water retention means you won’t have to water the plant as often.

Feed the plant by mixingsoil amendmentsinto the ground every spring.

Buya balanced fertilizerif you feel an extra boost is needed.

confirm to follow instructions on the bag carefully since over-feeding can burn the plant.

):

Cultivars are also available.

Pruning

Performmaintenance pruningon a Japanese lilac tree as you would on any tree or shrub.

Focus on removing any branches that are crossing and/or rubbing against each other.

Beyond this maintenance pruning,Syringa reticulataoften needs help in achieving the classic tree form.

Such pruning is especially important in the early years when you are training your plant to become a tree.

Once the cutting is planted in the soil, it should take root in about six weeks.

Songbirds enjoy feasting on the seed capsules.

These lilac trees can live for 40 to 50 years if properly cared for and maintained.