Lilac Syringa vulgaris 'Krasavitsa Moskvy' (d)

Water

The common lilac, or Syringa vulgaris 'Krasavitsa Moskvy', should be watered deeply to encourage root growth, which typically requires about 1 inch of water per week. During the growing season, especially in the absence of rainfall, water once or twice a week to maintain soil moisture, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. Young plants will need more frequent watering until established, which is generally for the first year or two. In hotter and drier climates, increase watering frequency, while in cooler, wetter regions, you may need to water less. Always use a gentle stream to avoid eroding the soil and to make sure the water penetrates deeply; a good estimate is about 5 gallons per week for an established shrub, adjusted for rainfall.

Light

The common lilac, or Syringa vulgaris 'Krasavitsa Moskvy', thrives best in full sun, which means it requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for planting is in an area that receives unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day to ensure abundant flowering. Partial shade is tolerable, but it might reduce the number of blooms the plant produces.

Temperature

For common lilacs such as Syringa vulgaris 'Krasavitsa Moskvy', the ideal temperature range is between 60°F and 75°F. However, these plants are quite cold-hardy and can tolerate winter lows down to -30°F. They can also survive in summer highs up to 95°F but may require extra watering to cope with the heat. Common lilacs are well-suited to a wide range of climates and are particularly resilient in cooler regions.

Pruning

Common lilacs, such as Syringa vulgaris 'Krasavitsa Moskvy', should be pruned to encourage blooming and to maintain a healthy, attractive shape. Pruning should take place immediately after the flowers fade in the spring, as lilacs bloom on old wood. Remove spent flowers and thin out any crowded branches, as well as cutting back any overly long or leggy shoots. Additionally, remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood when noticed. Pruning every year or two is typically sufficient.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The common lilac (Syringa vulgaris 'Krasavitsa Moskvy') prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A good soil mixture for this plant could include a base of loamy garden soil amended with compost and peat moss to ensure it retains moisture yet drains excess water. Adding a slow-release fertilizer during the planting or spring can provide essential nutrients for vigorous growth.

Repotting

Common lilacs like 'Krasavitsa Moskvy' are not typically grown in containers and therefore do not require routine repotting. When planted in the ground, they should be given a permanent location where they can grow undisturbed, as lilacs prefer not to be moved once they have been planted.

Humidity & Misting

Common lilacs, including Syringa vulgaris 'Krasavitsa Moskvy', are adaptable to a wide range of humidity conditions and do not require any specific humidity levels. They thrive in the varying outdoor humidity levels found in their hardiness zones.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Keep in sunny spot, ensure pot with drainage.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, spring or fall.

• Hardiness zone

  3-7 USDA

Life cycle

The common lilac 'Krasavitsa Moskvy', a deciduous shrub, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in spring, requiring a period of chilling to break dormancy. Seedlings grow into juvenile plants, developing roots and shoots that mature over several years; during this stage, they do not flower. The shrub enters its reproductive phase once mature, usually after a few years, producing fragrant pale pink flowers in late spring that are pollinated by insects, leading to seed formation. After flowering, the plant enters a period of vegetative growth, where it focuses on leaf and branch development throughout the summer. In autumn, leaves turn yellow and fall off as the plant enters dormancy to conserve energy through the winter. Each year, the cycle repeats with new growth in spring, eventual flowering, seed set, and dormancy.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late spring to early summer

• The most popular method of propagation for Syringa vulgaris 'Krasavitsa Moskvy', commonly known as the 'Beauty of Moscow' lilac, is through softwood cuttings. This process typically occurs in the spring to early summer, when the new growth is still tender and green. A healthy, non-flowering stem is chosen, and a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 cm) is taken, ensuring that several sets of leaves are present. The bottom set of leaves is removed, and the cut end of the stem can be dipped in rooting hormone before being placed in moistened soil or a suitable growing medium. The cutting is then kept under high humidity conditions, either naturally or with the aid of a plastic covering, until roots have formed, which usually takes several weeks. Once rooted, the new lilac plant can be hardened off and eventually transplanted to its permanent location.