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(Syringa vulgaris)
Introduction
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 The Lilac family originates from Europe and North-East Asia and contains about 20 species. Lilac is a deciduous shrub that is prized for its long panicles of small, highly scented flowers. These are suitable for export to a number of countries especially the east coast of the USA and parts of Asia. Export prices were around $3.00/stem in the spring of 2003. Local market prices were around $3.00 for a bunch of 5. Although there are a few growers who are exporting lilacs from coastal Southland it is expected that they will do better in the drier areas of Northern Southland and Central Otago.
Most Lilacs reach about 2.5m in height and 2.0m in width, although a few larger trees are seen occasionally. They are frost hardy and grow best in areas of low temperatures. They require at least a few frosts in order to flower well. The flowers appear from mid-spring and last for several weeks. Colours range from white and yellow to all shades of pink, mauve and purple. Like most flower crops the desirable colours change with fashion. The most important point to watch when choosing varieties is the number of ‘heads’ on the stem. The market seems to like 1s, 3s, 4s and 5s. They do not like flowers that come in 2s.
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Growing Lilacs
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Propagation:
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Grafted onto rootstock. Best to bury the graft union when planting as the rootstocks can die after 8–10 years. Burying the union ensures the scion produces its own roots.
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Spacing:
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At maturity size can vary but usual spacing is 3m by 4.5m.
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First harvest:
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A few flowers in Year 3. Maturity by Year 7–8
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Training/Pruning:
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Prune immediately following flowering
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Time of flowering:
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Early spring
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Crop protection:
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Shelter from the wind is required in some areas. Some frost protection is desirable as strong frosts can damage the flower buds, leaving them ‘blind’.
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Soil type:
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Lilacs grow best in alkaline soils in a cool position. The soil should be moist, humus-rich and well drained. pH7–7.5
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Fertilisers:
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NPK fertilisers need to be applied. The actual nutrient requirements should be based on soil tests.
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Pest/Diseases:
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Leaf rollers and thrips are the main insect pests.
Watch for bacterial diseases as well. Copper and anti-biotic sprays may be needed.
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Harvesting:
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For export, harvest when approximately 50% of the flowers on a head are open. For local market they can be more open than this. The post-harvest treatment Chrysal #2 is strongly recommended immediately after cutting stems from the bush. The vase life of Lilacs is 10–15 days.
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Marketing:
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There are markets in the USA and Asia
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Further Info:
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Related Topics
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