Lilac and Night-Blooming Jasmine Care in Bay Area

Bay Area gardener asks water/fertilizer needs for lilacs and night-blooming jasmine (Cestrum).

Soil and Fertilizer

• Both prefer slightly alkaline soil (high pH).
• Bloom best with long-term phosphorus: bone meal, organic matter.

Lilac (Syringa)

• Takes years to establish; blooms increase annually.

Night-Blooming Jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum)

• Tender tropical; survives brief freezes.
• Blooms in cycles year-round; fragrant only at night.

Watering

No special needs. Deep watering, then dry period for soil aeration. Avoid overwatering (anaerobic root rot). Excellent drainage essential. Full sun for both.