Most people think of lilacs as standalone shrubs or specimen trees, but they actually make for a stunning flowering hedge! If you’re looking for a natural privacy screen that smells like heaven and looks gorgeous, a lilac hedge is a fantastic choice. Follow these tips, and in a few years, you’ll have a lush, dense wall of blooms.
When to Plant and How Much Space to Leave
The absolute best time to get your lilac hedge in the ground is early fall—think September. The soil and air are still nice and warm, but you’ve moved past the scorching summer heat and aren’t yet worried about frost. You can also plant in the spring, but you’ll need to keep a close eye on those pesky late-season frosts.
Before you start digging, let’s talk spacing. It’s tempting to pack them in tight for instant privacy, but you have to give the roots room to breathe. Lilacs are interesting because they are both deep-rooted and shallow-rooted. This means their root systems spread out quite wide just below the surface.
To keep the plants from competing too much, don’t overcrowd them. A good rule of thumb is to plant a maximum of three shrubs per meter (about 3 feet). If you’re planting near a wall or other established garden beds, give the hedge about 1.5 meters (5 feet) of clearance. For a more natural, airy look, try staggering the plants in a slight zigzag pattern rather than a straight line.
The Perfect Spot for Your Lilac Hedge
Lilacs are sun-worshippers! For the best results, pick a spot with full sun, though they can handle a bit of partial shade. Just keep in mind that the less sun they get, the fewer flowers you’ll see—and let’s be honest, the blooms are the best part! If you notice yellowing leaves or a lack of flowers, your hedge might be craving more light.
When it comes to soil, your lilacs will be happiest if the ground is:
- Loose and airy
- Light
- On the drier side
- Well-draining
- Sandy
Avoid heavy clay or highly compacted soil. If you’re living in a newer build where heavy machinery has packed down the earth, you’ll definitely want to loosen the soil and amend it before planting. Lilacs hate “wet feet,” so good drainage is key to a happy hedge!
