How Far Apart Should You Plant Lilac Trees?

When it comes to planting lilac trees, one important consideration is how far apart they should be spaced from each other. This distance will depend on a few different factors, such as the size of the tree at maturity, the type of soil you have, and the amount of sunlight your planting area receives.

Determining the Size of Lilac Trees at Maturity

The first step in deciding how far apart to plant your lilac trees is to determine their mature size. Different types of lilacs can vary significantly in height, width, and overall shape. Here are a few examples:

Common Lilac (Syringa vulgaris) - can reach heights of 15 feet or more and spread 12-15 feet wide

Dwarf Korean Lilac (Syringa meyeri) - typically grows to around 6 feet tall and wide

Miss Kim Lilac (Syringa patula 'Miss Kim') - reaches heights of 6-8 feet and spreads 5-7 feet wide

Based on the mature size of your chosen lilac variety, you can determine how far away from each other they should be planted.

Spacing Guidelines for Lilac Trees

As a general rule, most lilac trees should be spaced at least 6-8 feet apart from each other. However, larger varieties like the Common Lilac may need to be separated by 10-12 feet to accommodate their size at maturity. Smaller types like the Dwarf Korean Lilac can be spaced closer together, from 4-6 feet apart.

If you are planting in a row or creating a hedge with your lilac trees, it's best to space them even further apart, from 8-12 feet, to allow for sufficient air circulation between the plants.

Considerations for Soil and Sunlight

In addition to the size of your lilac trees, you'll need to consider the type of soil you have and the amount of sunlight your planting location receives. Lilacs generally prefer well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (between 6.5 and 7.0).

If your planting area receives full sunlight for most of the day, your lilacs may need more space between them to avoid competing for resources like water and nutrients. On the other hand, if your location gets only partial sun or is shaded for part of the day, you may be able to plant your lilacs slightly closer together without issue.

Final Thoughts

To summarize, the ideal spacing for lilac trees will depend on several factors, including the mature size of the trees, the type of soil you have, and the amount of sunlight your planting area receives. Most lilacs should be spaced at least 6-8 feet apart, but larger varieties may need to be further apart, while smaller types can be placed closer together. By considering these factors, you can create an attractive and healthy lilac planting that will provide years of beauty and enjoyment.