Lavender

Heirloom Lavender

Use:  Culinary, Medicinal, Container garden

• 5 Key Steps to Grow Lavender

  • Choose the Right Spot & Soil: Lavender thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. Choose a location with at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Lavender prefers slightly alkaline soil with a pH between 6.5-7.5, so if your soil is acidic, consider adding garden lime.

  • Planting & Spacing: Plant lavender in early spring when temperatures start to warm up. Space plants 18-24 inches apart to give them room to grow and for proper airflow. If starting from seeds, start them indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost, then transplant seedlings outdoors once they’re a few inches tall.

  • Watering & Drainage: Lavender does best in well-draining soil and does not like to be waterlogged. Water deeply but infrequently—let the soil dry out between waterings. Mature lavender is drought-tolerant, but newly planted lavender will need regular watering until established.

  • Pruning & Maintenance: To encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming woody, prune lavender each year, ideally after blooming. Cut back about one-third of the plant but avoid cutting into old, woody stems. Regular pruning helps maintain shape and vigor.

  • Harvesting: Harvest lavender flowers when they are in full bloom for the best fragrance. Cut stems early in the day after dew has dried but before the heat sets in. Hang bunches upside down in a cool, dark place to dry for crafts or culinary use.

  Tips for Success

  • Drainage is Key: If your soil doesn’t drain well, consider planting lavender in raised beds or containers.
  • Avoid Overwatering: Overwatering is a common cause of lavender failure, leading to root rot. Let the soil dry out between waterings, especially for established plants.
  • Winter Protection: In colder climates, protect lavender from freezing temperatures by mulching around the base in late fall.