Highlights
- It’s a good choice for beginners and can be grown in a variety of climates.
- Once the weather has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed, transplant the seedlings to their permanent location in the garden.
- Gently remove the start from its container and place it in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Lavender, with its delicate purple blooms and intoxicating fragrance, is a beloved addition to any garden. Not only does it add beauty and aroma, but it also attracts beneficial insects and repels pests. If you’re looking to add this versatile herb to your outdoor space, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to plant lavender, from choosing the right variety to caring for it once it’s established.
Choosing the Right Lavender Variety
The first step in your lavender journey is selecting the right variety. There are numerous types of lavender, each with its unique characteristics and growing requirements. Here are a few popular choices:
- English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): This classic variety is known for its strong fragrance and beautiful purple flowers. It’s a good choice for beginners and can be grown in a variety of climates.
- French Lavender (Lavandula stoechas): This type features distinctive, showy bracts (leaf-like structures) that resemble bunny ears. It’s less cold-hardy than English lavender and prefers warmer climates.
- Spanish Lavender (Lavandula lanata): This variety is known for its woolly, silvery leaves and fragrant flowers. It’s a drought-tolerant option that thrives in hot, dry conditions.
Consider your climate, soil type, and desired use when making your selection. If you want to use lavender for culinary purposes, English lavender is a good choice. For ornamental purposes, French lavender’s unique appearance makes it a popular choice.
Preparing the Planting Site
Once you’ve chosen your lavender variety, it’s time to prepare the planting site. Lavender prefers well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline. Here’s how to get your garden ready:
1. Choose a sunny spot: Lavender thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
2. Amend the soil: If your soil is heavy or poorly drained, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
3. Test the pH: Lavender prefers a soil pH of 6.5 to 7.5. You can purchase a soil pH testing kit from your local garden center. If your soil is too acidic, you can raise the pH by adding lime.
Planting Lavender Seeds or Starts
You can start lavender from seeds or purchase starts (young plants) from a nursery. Here’s a breakdown of the two methods:
Planting Lavender Seeds:
1. Start seeds indoors: Sow seeds 6-8 weeks before the last frost in your area. Use a seed starting mix and place the seeds about 1/4 inch deep in the soil.
2. Thin seedlings: Once the seedlings have two sets of true leaves, thin them out, leaving the strongest plants.
3. Harden off seedlings: Before transplanting outdoors, gradually acclimate the seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them in a sheltered spot for increasingly longer periods.
4. Transplant outdoors: Once the weather has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed, transplant the seedlings to their permanent location in the garden. Space them 18-24 inches apart.
Planting Lavender Starts:
1. Choose healthy starts: When purchasing starts, select plants that are free of disease and pests.
2. Dig a hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of the start.
3. Place the start: Gently remove the start from its container and place it in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
4. Backfill the hole: Fill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots.
5. Water well: Water the newly planted lavender thoroughly.
Caring for Your Lavender Plants
Once your lavender plants are established, they require minimal care. Here’s what you need to know:
Watering: Lavender is drought-tolerant, but it does need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilizing: Lavender doesn‘t require heavy fertilization. However, you can give it a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth.
Pruning: Regular pruning helps to keep your lavender plants healthy and encourages bushier growth. Prune after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage new growth.
Winter Care: Lavender is generally hardy, but in colder climates, it may need some winter protection. Mulch around the base of the plants to help insulate the roots from frost.
Harvesting Lavender
Once your lavender plants have finished flowering, you can harvest the flowers for dried bouquets, culinary use, or essential oil extraction. Here’s how:
1. Cut the flower stalks: Cut the flower stalks in the morning, after the dew has dried.
2. Bundle the stalks: Tie the stalks together in small bundles.
3. Hang to dry: Hang the bundles upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area.
4. Store the dried lavender: Once the lavender is completely dry, store it in airtight containers in a cool, dark place.
Lavender’s Many Uses
Lavender is a versatile herb with numerous uses. Here are just a few:
- Culinary: Lavender flowers can be used to flavor desserts, drinks, and savory dishes.
- Aromatic: Lavender is known for its calming and relaxing fragrance. It can be used in potpourris, sachets, and aromatherapy.
- Medicinal: Lavender has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, including its ability to soothe anxiety, promote sleep, and relieve pain.
- Ornamental: Lavender’s beautiful purple flowers and silvery foliage make it a popular choice for ornamental gardens.
The Final Bloom: A Celebration of Your Lavender Garden
Your lavender journey is now complete! You’ve successfully planted and cared for this aromatic herb, reaping the rewards of its beauty and fragrance. As you watch your lavender plants flourish, remember that their presence brings a touch of tranquility and elegance to your outdoor space.
Top Questions Asked
Q: When is the best time to plant lavender?
A: The best time to plant lavender is in the spring or fall, after the last frost.
Q: How often should I water lavender?
A: Lavender is drought-tolerant, so you don’t need to water it frequently. However, it’s important to water it deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: How do I prune lavender?
A: Prune lavender after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage new growth. You can prune it back to about 1/3 of its height.
Q: Can I grow lavender in a pot?
A: Yes, you can grow lavender in a pot. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and deep. Make sure the pot has drainage holes.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect lavender?
A: Lavender is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and root rot.
