• Bare Root - Prune ALL bare root plants to reduce transplant shock and ensure success. Pruning should take place either before planting or as soon as possible afterward. All pruning should be done with a sharp pruning shears.
• B&B & Grow Bags, containers - While it is not crucial for balled and burlapped (B&B), grow bags, or container plants to be pruned immediately after planting, a light pruning to shape, remove any branches damaged during shipping, or thin out a densely branched plant can aid in the transplanting process and improve the appearance of your new planting.

• Prune in November & December – Cut out spent flower heads when petals fade. Keep bushes youthful and blooming freely by pruning out a quarter of the older shoots each year in winter. Remove basal suckers.

• Plants typically take approximately 6 weeks to establish new roots in your soil. During this period, water plants as often as every 2-4 days at the start and at least a minimum of once per week.
• Beyond the 6 week establishment period, water once per week, unless rains occur.
• Stick your finger into the soil around 3” to check soil moisture.

• After the first season, plants should only be watered during extended periods without rain.
• How do you know if your plants need water? The easiest way to tell is to touch the soil around the roots. If it is moist, there is no need to water. If it is dry, give it a good soaking with the hose end (no nozzle) watering the soil only and not the leaves.
• Stick your finger into the soil around 3” to check soil moisture.

Discover helpful gardening tips and insights in our FAQs, featuring McKay Nursery's Sensation Lilac plant.

The Syringa Vulgaris “Sensation” thrives in a location that receives full sun for at least 6-8 hours per day. This ensures vigorous growth and abundant blooms. A site that is open and protected from strong winds, with good air circulation, is ideal to reduce the risk of powdery mildew.

The Syringa Vulgaris “Sensation” can be planted in both spring and fall. Fall planted lilacs benefit from cooler temperatures, allowing them to establish roots without the stress of summer heat, leading to a stronger start in the following spring season.

The Syringa Vulgaris “Sensation” prefers fertile, humus-rich, alkaline to neutral, dry to medium, well-drained soils. It thrives in chalky soils but dislikes overly wet conditions. Ensuring the right soil conditions is crucial for the health and bloom of your lilac bush.

Watering needs are moderate; it's important to water your Sensation Lilac plant when the top 3 cm of soil has dried out. After planting, water regularly to help establish roots, then adjust to less frequent watering, ensuring the plant does not sit in soggy soil.

Watering needs are moderate; it's important to water your Sensation Lilac plant when the top 3 cm of soil has dried out. After planting, water regularly to help establish roots, then adjust to less frequent watering, ensuring the plant does not sit in soggy soil.

Removing spent flower heads promptly after blooming can encourage a tidier appearance and potentially more blooms the following year. This practice, known as deadheading, is beneficial for the Sensation Lilac.

Yes, Sensation Lilac (Syringa Vulgaris) is quite hardy and can tolerate cold temperatures well. It's important to ensure it's well-mulched in fall to protect the root system during winter.

With over a century of experience, McKay Nursery is a testament to quality and expertise in the horticultural world. Our plants are nurtured on our extensive acreage in Waterloo, Wisconsin, guaranteeing robust, healthy specimens for your garden. Shop online with confidence, thanks to our comprehensive warranty and superior packaging, designed to bring the nursery's best directly to your door. For guidance or inquiries, reach out to us at [email protected] or 920-478-2121.