Knowledgebase
Growing Lilacs in Broome as a beginner gardener #925888
Asked March 12, 2026, 2:14 AM EDT
Can you suggest a lilac that I could try that would thrive in Broome County? I have a sunny open property and would like to start planting lilac trees. I got some baby ones years ago from a tree organization here, and I didn’t have any luck. The deer devoured them. I have a lot of deer on my property and need to know how to protect the lilacs with some kind of cage or something until it gets bigger. And how to help it live through our harsh winters. My property is very windy throughout the year, even in winter. I think maybe I need to buy an older plant, and one that is hardy for cold winters. I know they grow wild here, but I don’t have any already in my property and it’s been hard to grow them myself.
Broome County New York
Expert Response
Hi Debbie!
Thank you for reaching out. I am happy to answer your questions!
First off, I would suggest starting with the Common Lilac also called the French Lilac. This lilac is the most common in our area and has the purple blooms. Here are a few links about this variety:
https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/syringa-vulgaris/
Second, to help with the deer problem: you can absolutely set up fencing around the lilac bushes until they get older. You could use something like chicken wire fencing and stake it around the area you are planting them. That should help keep the critters away.
Lastly, I wanted to share these articles with you about growing lilacs. These should help point you in the right direction:
https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/growing-lilacs-home-garden
https://extension.umn.edu/trees-and-shrubs/lilacs
If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to reach out!
Best wishes,
Chantal, Broome County Master Gardener Volunteer
