How to Grow Japanese Tree Lilac - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Japanese tree lilac is a beautiful plant that is native to Japan. It has stunning white flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers have a sweet, vanilla-like scent that is incredibly pleasant. The tree can grow to be quite large, reaching up to 30 feet tall. Japanese tree lilac is a popular plant to grow in gardens and parks.

How to Grow Japanese Tree Lilac - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • japanese lilac tree
  • japanese tree lilac
  • japanese false lilac
  • japanese mock orange
  • japanese orange lilac

Common Knowledge

  • The japanese tree lilac is a popular ornamental tree in Japan.
  • It is also known as the "Japanese lilac".
  • The japanese tree lilac is a deciduous tree.
  • It can grow to a height of 10-15 m.
  • The japanese tree lilac has a spreading crown.
  • The leaves are ovate-shaped and measure 10-20 cm in length.
  • The flowers are white and they bloom in May.
  • The fruit is a small capsule and it is black in color.
  • The japanese tree lilac is propagated by seed.
  • It is susceptible to various diseases and pests.

Related plant:
Japanese Azalea Orange

How to Grow

  1. For japanese tree lilac, first step is to buy a tree. You can purchase a tree from a nursery or online.
  2. Once you have your tree, find a location in your yard that receives full sun.
  3. Next, dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the tree’s root ball.
  4. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil.
  5. Tamp down the soil around the base of the tree.
  6. Water the tree deeply.
  7. Mulch around the base of the tree.
  8. Fertilize the tree in early spring.
  9. Prune the tree as needed.
  10. Enjoy your beautiful japanese tree lilac!

Related plant:
Japanese Maple Bonsai

The Soil

About soil condition, Japanese tree lilac (Syringa reticulata) prefers well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH, although it is tolerant of a wide range of soils. It does not do well in wet, poorly drained soils. This tree also has good drought tolerance once it is established.

About light

Similar to other trees, the Japanese tree lilac needs sunlight to grow. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates. It's a hardy plant that can adapt to different types of soil, as long as it's well-drained.

The Temperature

The temperature condition that is most favorable for the growth of the Japanese tree lilac is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the tree can also tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 40%. If the humidity is too low, the plant will become dry and brittle. If the humidity is too high, the plant will become waterlogged and may develop root rot.

Fertilizer Requirement

The fertilizer, this kind of plant need, is composed of one part manure and two parts peat moss. The Japanese tree lilac's roots are relatively shallow, so it is important to spread a two-inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant, but not directly against the trunk.

About light

Pruning your Japanese tree lilac is important to maintaining its shape and preventing it from becoming overgrown. You should prune it in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Start by removing any dead or damaged branches. Then, cut back any branches that are growing out of bounds or rubbing against each other. Finally, trim back any lanky or wayward branches to create a pleasing shape.

Plant Propagation

Propagation of japanese tree lilac is best done by rooting semi-ripe cuttings taken from the tips of new growth in late summer. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. Before planting, the cuttings should be dipped in a root-promoting hormone. They can then be planted in a well-drained potting mix and kept moist until they have rooted.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate species are fast growing. Many can grow up to 2.5 feet per year. Given the right conditions, some species can grow even faster. The leaves of japanese tree lilacs are large and can get up to 8 inches long. The flowers are small and white, and they grow in clusters. The japanese tree lilac can grow to be quite large, reaching heights of 30 feet or more.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew, aphids, and caterpillars. Powdery mildew is a white powdery substance that can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. Aphids are small, green insects that suck the sap out of the plant, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and the plant to become stunted. Caterpillars are the larval stage of certain moths and butterflies, and they can eat the leaves of the plant.

Growing Tips

  • Make sure to plant your Japanese tree lilac in an area that receives full sun.
  • Be sure to provide enough space for your tree lilac to grow. It can reach up to 25 feet in height and width, so make sure you have the room!
  • Japanese tree lilacs are very hardy and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, but they prefer well-drained soil.
  • When planting, be sure to plant your tree lilac at the same depth it was growing in the container.
  • Water your Japanese tree lilac regularly, especially during the first growing season. Once established, it is quite drought tolerant.
  • Fertilize your tree lilac in early spring with a general purpose fertilizer.
  • Prune your tree lilac as needed to maintain its shape and size.
  • Keep an eye out for scale insects, which can infest your tree lilac and cause the

Substitution

  • Description & Meaning
  • Plant's Life Cycle
  • Our Favorite Variety
  • Where to Place
  • How to Plant
  • How to Take Care of
  • Pests and Diseases
  • Flowers and Fruits
  • Seeding
  • Similar Plants

Source:
Japanese tree lilac | UMass Amherst Greenhouse Crops and …
Japanese Tree Lilac | Campus Trees - University of Minnesota
Syringa reticulata (Giant Tree Lilac, Japanese Tree Lilac) | North ...

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