Lilac (Syringa) is a plant that forms a lot of runners, which - depending on the species and variety - multiplies very quickly in an uncontrolled manner and crowds out other garden plants. For this reason, the ornamental shrub is also classified as a neophyte and should always be provided with a root barrier.

Lilacs not only grow tall, but also very wide in the ground

What is a root barrier?

A root barrier does exactly what it says: it confines the roots within a boundary, preventing them from spreading underground. They are made of durable and very stable high-density plastics, such as hard polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene (PP). The material is usually sold in roll form, so you can cut it yourself to the length you need.

What to look out for when buying a root barrier

Many gardeners try to stop their lilacs from spreading with the help of roofing felt or pond liner. However, both materials are not suitable for this purpose, since the lilac roots can easily penetrate them. Instead, you should purchase a high-quality root barrier from a garden store, even if it is more expensive. In order for this to be effective as desired, it should have the following properties:

  • root-resistant material: material of high density and strength, so that the shoots cannot penetrate the barrier
  • UV-resistant material: UV light weakens plastics so that they are no longer effective after a few years. So make sure you choose a UV-resistant material.
  • Frost-resistant material: Frost can also make plastic brittle and brittle over time. Therefore, buy a root barrier made of frost-resistant material.
  • non-toxic material: Also make sure that the root barrier does not contain plasticizers and other harmful chemicals, as this could damage the lilac.

How to install a root barrier

After you have obtained the root barrier you want, you can start installing it. Of course, the principle works most simply if you dig it in when you plant the young plant. However, it can also be inserted later. That's how it works:

  • Choose a suitable location for your lilac.
  • Think about how much space you want to give the shrub.
  • Keep in mind that this one needs some room to grow.
  • So you should leave at least a meter to a meter and a half free around the main trunk.
  • Dig an appropriately sized hole.
  • Insert the root barrier there in a ring - at least 60 centimeters deep.
  • Plant the lilac in the middle.

tips

By the way, lilac runners should be dug up, otherwise they will sprout again from their sleeping eyes.

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Trees