Jooni
Syringa
1 Species
Species
Fertilizing
Feed your lilac bonsai with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season from spring to fall. For best results, dilute the fertilizer to half strength according to package instructions. During the winter dormancy period, cease fertilization entirely. A well-balanced feeding schedule will promote healthy growth and abundant flowering in the following season.
Placement
Lilac bonsai requires full sun exposure, ideally receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. While hardy, they don't tolerate frozen roots well - protect them by moving to a cold greenhouse or similar shelter when temperatures drop below -4°C (25°F). During the hottest parts of summer days, providing light afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent stress on the plant.
Pruning
The pruning approach for lilac bonsai requires a delicate balance. New stems should be encouraged to maintain the plant's vigor, while older woodier branches can be removed every 6-10 years when suitable replacements are available. Always prune after flowering in late spring or early summer to avoid affecting next year's blooms. When pruning, cut back shoots to leave three active nodes or lateral shoots. Remember that heavy pruning can impact flowering, so maintain a careful balance between shaping and flower production.
Development pruning starts with removing dead, damaged, or weak branches to improve the overall health. For structural pruning, identify and trim back main branches to create a desired framework and encourage balanced shape. When thinning, selectively remove crowded branches to allow light and air into the inner parts of the tree. Regular maintenance of the apical bud through trimming will encourage lateral budding and maintain a compact growth habit.
Repotting
Annual repotting is recommended for lilac bonsai, best performed after flowering has completed. The vigorous root system and tendency to produce suckers means they need regular root maintenance to keep them in check. Use a well-draining mix - either combine leaf mold, bark, loam, and sharp sand in equal parts, or use a 2:1 ratio of Akadama to pumice. This provides both the drainage and organic content that lilacs need for optimal growth.
Watering
Lilac bonsai requires careful attention to watering, particularly before and during flower production. While they need consistent moisture, they are susceptible to both drought damage and waterlogged conditions. Allow the soil surface to moderately dry between waterings, but never let it dry out completely. Adjust your watering frequency based on weather conditions and the plant's needs, being particularly vigilant during the growing season and flowering period.