10. Lavender Plant Care and Growing Tips

Lavender, with its delicate fragrance and vibrant blooms, has charmed gardeners and enthusiasts for centuries. Its versatile nature makes it a popular choice for gardens, landscapes, and even indoor plantings. However, cultivating healthy and thriving lavender plants requires a nuanced understanding of its unique needs. In this post, we will look at lavender plant care and growing tips, equipping both beginners and experienced gardeners with the knowledge they need to cultivate flourishing lavender gardens.

1. Choosing the Right Lavender Varieties
The journey to successful lavender gardening begins with selecting the appropriate lavender variety. There are several species and cultivars available, each with distinct characteristics suited for specific climates and purposes. Common varieties include English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), French lavender (Lavandula stoechas), and Spanish lavender (Lavandula dentata). Here in our part of California, our climate suites all the varieties of lavender but not every variety can survive snow. So, researching and selecting the right variety for your region is crucial.

2. Location and Soil Preparation
Lavender thrives in well-draining soil and abundant sunlight. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Lavender also demands excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Prepare the soil by adding sand or gravel to improve drainage, especially if your soil tends to retain moisture. Lavender gets damaged by overwatering, so you will want to make sure you soil is sandy and drains well.

3. Planting Techniques
Plant lavender in the spring or fall when the weather is mild. Space the plants at least 2 to 3 feet apart to allow for air circulation. For smaller varieties like English lavenders, you do not need as much space between plants. When planting, make sure the crown (where the stem meets the roots) is level with the soil surface. Gently pat down the soil around the plant to eliminate air pockets.

4. Watering Strategies
While lavender is relatively drought-tolerant once established, it requires consistent watering during its initial growth period. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage the growth of deep roots. Make sure you let the soil dry for a week before watering again. Overwatering lavender will cause parts or all of the plant to die due to root rot. Avoid overhead watering to prevent moisture-related issues such as mildew. Consider using a drip irrigation system for efficient watering.

When we first got started with little lavender plugs, we had to water them once every few days for a little over a week. However, we were planting at the end of May and it got hot early that year.

5. Pruning and Deadheading
Pruning is a critical aspect of lavender care. Regular pruning not only helps maintain a compact and attractive shape but also stimulates new growth. Prune lavender immediately after the first bloom to encourage a potential second flowering. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to redirect the plant’s energy toward new blooms and prevent seed production.Regardless of whether your lavender blooms twice or not, it is best to give the plants one final pruning by the end of August.

6. Fertilization Techniques
Lavender doesn’t require heavy feeding. In fact, excessive fertilization can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can lead to leggy growth. Overly fertile soil can cause the leaves to turn yellow and possibly kill it.

7. Pest and Disease Management
Lavender is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but vigilance is still necessary. Keep an eye out for common issues like aphids, spider mites, and fungal diseases. Consider using natural solutions like neem oil or insecticidal soap if pest problems arise.

For larger pests, deer generally leave our plants alone but grophers are a problem. They are drawn to the plants by the water coming out of the drip emiters and easily damage a small plant. Gophers have also eaten the roots of our larger plants killing the plant.

8. Overwintering Preparations
In colder climates, lavender plants may need some protection during winter. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to insulate the roots. Avoid heavy mulching directly on the crown, as excess moisture can lead to rot.

9. Harvesting and Using Lavender
Harvest lavender flowers in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day. Use clean, sharp scissors to snip the flower stems just above the leaves. Lavender flowers can be dried and used in a variety of ways, including sachets, potpourri, culinary applications, and homemade beauty products. You can order our Dried Lavender Bundle for your crafting and decor needs by clicking here. 

10. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Addressing challenges such as leggy growth, yellowing leaves, and lack of blooms requires an understanding of lavender’s specific needs. Proper diagnosis and corrective measures can help ensure the health and vitality of your lavender plants.

Cultivating lavender can be a rewarding endeavor, offering not only the visual beauty of its blossoms but also the soothing aroma that has made it famous. You can create a thriving lavender garden that brings joy and tranquility to your outdoor space. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to successfully nurturing these lovely plants, resulting in a garden that’s a true lavender haven.