Syringa vulgaris 'Michel Buchner', commonly known as Lilac 'Michel Buchner', is a beautiful deciduous shrub from the French lilac family. It is highly prized for its large, double lavender-pink flowers and rich fragrance, making it a popular choice for UK gardens. 

• Leaves: The leaves are heart-shaped, medium green, and smooth, providing a fresh backdrop for the stunning floral display. The foliage is dense, adding to the shrub’s overall aesthetic even when it’s not in bloom.
• Growth Habit: Michel Buchner has an upright, multi-stemmed growth habit with a bushy, rounded form. Over time, it develops into a well-shaped medium to large shrub.
• Bloom Time: Michel Buchner blooms in mid to late spring (typically May in the UK), offering a long-lasting floral display that can continue for several weeks.
• Flower Appearance: The double, lavender-pink flowers are arranged in large, conical panicles that can grow up to 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) long. Each flower is fully double, with a soft, layered appearance, giving the blooms a ruffled look.
• Fragrance: Like other lilacs, Michel Buchner is highly fragrant, with a classic lilac scent that perfumes the air during its bloom period.
• Flower Arrangement: The flowers are borne on old wood, meaning pruning should take place immediately after flowering to avoid removing next year’s flower buds.
• Height and Spread: Syringa 'Michel Buchner' typically grows to a height of 2.5 to 3.5 meters (8 to 12 feet) and spreads to around 2 to 3 meters (6 to 10 feet). This makes it a good choice for both small and large gardens.

Like most lilacs, Michel Buchner prefers fertile, well-drained soils. It will grow in a range of soil types, but the best results come from loamy soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. For the best flowering, plant Michel Buchner in full sun. While it can tolerate light shade, flower production and fragrance may be reduced in lower light conditions. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers. Prune immediately after flowering to avoid cutting off the next season’s blooms. Remove spent flower heads, dead or damaged wood, and thin the shrub if necessary to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration.

Guide to Planting Field-Grown Root Balled Plants

Pros:

1. Established Roots: Typically stronger, established roots ensure better initial growth.
2. Immediate Impact: Larger plants provide instant structure and aesthetics.

Cons:

1. Heavy and Bulky: Can be difficult to transport and plant due to size and weight.
2. Seasonal Availability: Generally available only in the dormant season (autumn to early spring).

Preparation for Planting:

1. Unwrap Carefully: Remove any packaging material, but leave the burlap or wire basket on.
2. Keep plants moist: Plants should be kept moist until the time of planting.

Planting Process:

1. Dig a Hole: Make a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
2. Position Plant: Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top is level with the ground surface.
3. Do Not Remove Root Sack: Leave the burlap or wire basket around the root ball. It is bio degradable and will rot away naturally.
4. Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, firming gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water: Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and avoid wilting.

Possibility of Losses:

• Initial Shock: Some plants may suffer transplant shock, leading to potential losses.
• Mitigation: Proper care and consistent watering during the establishment phase can minimise this risk.

Main Causes of Failure:

1. Improper Planting Depth: Planting too deep or too shallow can stress the roots.
2. Poor Soil Conditions: Compacted or poorly drained soil can hinder root growth.
3. Insufficient Watering: Both under-watering and over-watering can lead to plant stress and failure. Strong wind can dry leafy pants.
4. Pest and Disease: Lack of protection and monitoring can result in damage from pests and diseases.

Tips for Success:

1. Stake Larger Plants: Support with stakes to prevent wind damage.
2. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
3. Regular Monitoring: Check for signs of stress, pests, and disease, and address them promptly.

By following these guidelines and providing consistent aftercare, you can successfully plant and establish field-grown root balled plants in your garden.

Use this text to share information about your product.

Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.