Question
I am having trouble growing Korean Lilacs. I received 3 of these plants in early May (they were from Monrovia). I followed the planting instructions and potted each one in its own container with lots of soil and some small rocks on top for "moisture retention". I water regularly in the morning and evening. They receive about 4-6 hours of sunlight a day.  The plants look wilted and tired, they have not filled in, and have not bloomed. Can you suggest how I can revive them? I might have missed the blooming season, but the green leaves look terrible! Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

Answer
Colleen,
 This lilac should probably be planted in the ground.  Even the dwarf Korean Lilac reaches to 4' or 5'high and wide.  The regular one can reach to 6' or 8' high and 5' wide. Being in containers is strangling them.  The roots need room to grow.  Lilacs need a good root base before they begin to bloom. Lilacs need at least 6 hours of sun for best growth.

For best results, plant in early spring.
-Lilacs require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
-Plant in good, well-drained soil. The soil must be well-drained.
-Water regularly until established and during the summer.
-Prune old blooms away immediately after flowering to encourage more blossoms.
-Fertilize with "Bulb-Tone" (rich in Nitrogen, Phosphate and Potash) at planting and again every spring and autumn.

Hardy in zones 3-7.

Sijka