When to Plant and How to Grow Lavender in Your Garden

When to Plant Lavender and How to Make Sure it Grows in Your Garden

Lavender is a beloved herb cherished for its aromatic foliage and beautiful flower heads. Native to the Mediterranean, lavender thrives in a wide range of climates and can be a lovely addition to any garden, whether you're growing it in a small space, a herb garden, or a large field. In this guide, we'll explore the best time to plant lavender, how to grow it successfully, and the care it needs to thrive. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, these step-by-step instructions will help you enjoy the beauty and fragrance of lavender in your own home garden.

When to Plant Lavender

Best Time to Plant

The best time to plant lavender is in early spring, after the last frost, or in late fall, before the first frost. Planting in early spring allows the lavender plants to establish a robust root system before the hot summer months, while planting in late fall gives the plants time to settle before winter. In cooler climates, it's advisable to plant lavender in the spring to ensure that the young plants are well-established before the cold winter months.

Ideal Conditions

Lavender thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It prefers alkaline soil, with a pH of 6.7 to 7.3, and does well in moderately fertile soil. Good air circulation is essential to prevent fungal diseases, so avoid planting lavender in crowded areas. In small spaces, raised beds or containers are excellent options for growing lavender, providing better drainage and air circulation.

How to Grow Lavender

Choosing the Right Variety

Lavender comes in many varieties, each with its unique characteristics. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is the most commonly grown species, known for its compact plants and sweet-smelling flowers. It's a great choice for cooler climates. French lavender (Lavandula stoechas) and Spanish lavender are more tolerant of high humidity and warmer climates, making them ideal for the southern United States. Other popular lavender varieties include the upright-growing rosemary lavender and the pink-flowered species of lavender.

Preparing the Planting Site

Soil Test: Before planting, conduct a soil test to determine the pH and nutrient levels of your soil. Adjust the soil conditions as necessary to achieve the ideal pH for lavender.

Good Drainage: Lavender requires good drainage to prevent root rot. If you have heavy soils or clay soil, improve drainage by amending the soil with sand, gravel, or organic matter. Raised beds or terracotta pots with drainage holes can also help ensure proper drainage.

Lots of Sun: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Lavender plants need lots of sun to produce healthy flower buds and aromatic foliage.

Planting Lavender

Lavender Seeds or Starter Plants: Lavender can be grown from seeds or starter plants. Lavender seeds should be sown in a seed tray filled with a light, sandy soil mix. Place the seed tray in a dark place at room temperature until the seeds germinate. For quicker results, purchase potted lavender plants or young plants from a nursery.

Planting in the Garden: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough so that the top of the soil in the pot is level with the surrounding soil. Place the plant in the hole, fill with native soil, and gently firm the soil around the base of the plant.

Spacing: Space lavender plants about 12-18 inches apart to allow for good air circulation. For a lavender hedge or low hedge, plant them closer together, about 6-8 inches apart.

Caring for Lavender

Watering: Lavender is drought-tolerant once established but requires regular watering during its first year. Water newly planted lavender deeply once a week, and increase to twice a week during hot, dry periods. In damp conditions or high humidity, water less frequently to prevent root rot.

Fertilizing: Lavender doesn't require much fertilizer. In fact, too much fertilizer can lead to lush foliage but fewer flowers. A general rule is to fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or compost.

Pruning: Prune lavender plants annually to maintain their shape and encourage new growth. In late winter or early spring, trim the woody stems back by about one-third, removing any old wood and dead leaves. Avoid cutting into the old wood, as this can damage the plant.

Mulching: Mulching with gravel or coarse sand can help improve drainage and keep the roots cool in hot weather. Avoid organic mulches like straw or bark, which can retain moisture and lead to fungal disease.

Harvesting and Using Lavender

Harvesting Lavender Flowers

Best Time: The best time to harvest lavender flowers is in the morning, after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day. The flower heads should be just starting to open, with some buds still closed.

How to Harvest: Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the flower stems, leaving about 2 inches of stem on each flower head. Bundle the stems together with a rubber band and hang them upside down in a cool, dark place with good air circulation to dry.

Using Lavender

Culinary Use: Lavender flowers can be used in cooking and baking, adding a unique floral flavor to dishes like lavender lemonade, shortbread, and sweet cherry tomato salads. Be sure to use culinary lavender varieties, as some ornamental varieties may have a bitter taste.

Aromatic Use: Dried lavender can be used to make sachets, potpourri, or essential oils. Its aromatic foliage and flowers are also great for making lavender-infused oils and balms.

Decorative Use: Lavender's vibrant colors and fragrant flowers make it a popular choice for dried flower arrangements and wreaths. It can also be used to add a touch of elegance to formal gardens and flower beds.

Common Issues and Solutions

Root Rot

Root rot is a common problem for lavender plants grown in poorly drained soil or overwatered conditions. To prevent root rot, ensure good drainage and avoid watering too frequently. If you notice yellowing leaves or wilting plants, check the roots for signs of rot and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

Fungal Disease

Fungal diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot can affect lavender, especially in high humidity or crowded conditions. To prevent fungal disease, provide good air circulation by spacing plants properly and avoid overhead watering. If necessary, treat infected plants with a fungicide recommended for lavender.

Conclusion: Enjoying Lavender in Your Garden

Lavender is a versatile and hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of settings, from herb gardens and formal gardens to fields of lavender and small spaces. With proper care and the right conditions, lavender plants can provide a beautiful display of aromatic foliage and colorful flowers for many years. Whether you're growing lavender for its culinary use, aromatic properties, or decorative appeal, following these guidelines will help ensure your lavender plants are healthy and productive. From choosing the best lavender varieties to planting, caring, and harvesting, this step-by-step guide covers everything you need to know to grow lavender in your garden successfully.