Most garden centers carry the most common, hardy varieties. If you can't locate exactly what you want contact a regional Botanical Garden or Society.

Lilacs need lots of sun to grow well. If it's too shady they won't receive enough sunlight to make them flower properly. Lack of good light will also allow a white mildew to develop on their leaves.

Applying mulch around the base of lilacs will help to keep weeds down.

Pruning will help keep your shrubs healthy and allow air to circulate through the branches.

Older lilacs, too, can be greatly improved with a good pruning that will enhance their size and shape.