Foliage Leaves vary in shape, size and color. Variegated leaf forms are also available. Usually, lilacs are propagated by professional nurserymen. However, because many lilac varieties are not available through nurseries, the homeowner may have to propagate these themselves. Root Sprouts are usually the simplest and easiest way for the gardener to propagate many lilacs.
Some cultivars send out suckers, near the base of the plant, which already have their own roots.
These can be dug up and be permanently transplanted or set in a temporary nursery pot for later use. Rooted suckers are most successfully transplanted in early spring before buds start to unfold. In several years, they can develop into satisfactory plants. Layering is a slow but easy way to propagate plants. First, select a flexible branch and make a 2-inch slanting cut on the branch about 1 foot from the tip.