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I would have the soil tested. Pine needles can make the soil acidic. Lilacs like well drained, organic rich soil that is only slightly acidic to moderately alkaline.

Nikki - Certified GKH Gardening Expert | Report Abuse

Most transplanting takes place in spring or fall (preferably fall). If you can ensure that the majority of the roots and surrounding soil is lifted and replanted in suitable growing conditions, you’ll have a greater chance of success. To reduce shock, trimming may help. Here is an article that you may find helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/learn-how-to-avoid-and-repair-transplant-shock-in-plants.htm

As for dividing the lilac, it is unlikely you’ll be able to do so though you can obtain or dig away the shoots to make additional plants. Dig down from the main clump, exposing the roots and cut the shoot away from the mother plant. Make sure you include roots. Then simply plant the shoot in a suitable location, watering regularly until it takes hold.

A much better and easier way of propagating lilac is through cuttings. This article will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/how-to-root-cuttings-from-various-shrubs-bushes-and-trees.htm

It is possible for a lilac to have a different hue from one year to the next, depending on pH, moisture and nutrition. While one cannot change the color in a lilac as one could with some of the hydrangea, hue changes are definitely a possibility.

Yes, you can definitely grow a lilac in a container. Depending on the current size and varieties' ultimate size, you should be able to obtain a suitable size pot. The only thing you should do to protect your plant for winter is to wrap the pot with some insulating material such as old quilts, sleeping bags, a huge plastic bag filled with Styrofoam peanuts or similar items. Remove the materials when danger of 15-20*F with wind low temperatures are over. If you are lucky enough to have a windbreak to shelter the plant, use it to keep damaging winds from drying it out in cold weather.