I have a friend with a very old lilac tree (30 years plus) and it's very, very tall (in Vancouver). It is going to have to be taken out because of renovations to the house and I was wondering how one could take cuttings of this tree as she would love so much love to keep a piece of this tree. It has the most beautiful dark flowers with a scent out of this world. Thank you for any advice you may be able to offer.
Cut off 5" pieces, clip off bottom leaves (up to 3") dip them in rooting hormone powder and blow off the excess, plant them 2" deep in damp soil and keep out of direct sun til you see new leaves growing (not just this year's buds opening) - then wait a couple of wks for roots to strengthen, and plant it in a suitable place with lots of watering this season. Fertilize in about a month.
