Plant common lilac and its cultivars in a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Prepare the planting hole with some garden compost, set the plant at the same depth as in the pot, and water well to help it establish. Mulch around the base with 5-7cm (2-3?in) of well-rotted compost or manure each spring to conserve moisture and encourage strong root growth.

Lilacs benefit from occasional pruning: in mid-summer, remove spent flower heads carefully with secateurs to avoid damaging young shoots, and cut out any dead, diseased or crossing branches to maintain an open, healthy framework. For older plants, prune immediately after flowering to shape the plant and promote vigorous new growth for the following year.