Common lilacs (*Syringa vulgaris* hybrids) and many other popular varieties typically show off their colors in the spring and early summer. However, did you know there are some lilac types that keep the party going all the way into autumn? While your lilacs won’t need a ton of attention during the fall and winter, there are a few key tips to keep in mind to ensure they stay happy and healthy.
Fall is the Perfect Time to Plant
If you’re looking to add a new lilac shrub to your garden, late summer or early fall is your best bet. You want to aim for that “Goldilocks” window—usually September—when the scorching summer heat has faded but the ground hasn’t frozen yet. This gives the roots plenty of time to get established in the soil before winter sets in.
By planting in the fall, your lilac doesn’t have to waste energy on root development in the spring; instead, it can focus all that power on new growth and flower buds. Just a heads-up for those planting young shrubs: patience is a virtue! It usually takes about three years for a new lilac to produce its first real bloom.
Pruning Your Lilac in Autumn
Every now and then, your lilac tree or shrub will need a little thinning out. The best time to get a good look at the “bones” or structure of the plant is right after it has dropped its leaves. I recommend doing a rejuvenation prune in late autumn. Then, the following fall, just go back in and snip away any thin, weak, or dead new shoots.
If your lilac still looks a bit crowded, you can repeat this process the following year. This method keeps the plant strong and healthy, allowing you to let it grow undisturbed for the next few years—which is exactly what it needs for a truly spectacular floral display.
Autumn Lilacs for Late-Season Color
If you’re like me and can’t get enough of those blooms, you might want to look into “Autumn Lilacs.” A fan favorite is the Littleleaf Lilac, *Syringa microphylla* ‘Superba.’ This variety has an incredibly long blooming period that can stretch from April all the way into October (with a few short breaks in between).
The best part? This variety is super low-maintenance and handles winter like a champ. Not only does it bloom for months, but it also has a wonderful, intense fragrance. Feel free to snip a few stems to bring indoors, too! While lilacs in a vase usually don’t last very long, ‘Superba’ is the exception to the rule—it can stay looking fresh on your kitchen table for over a week.
