Lavender
Lavender is a fragrant perennial with beautiful purple flowers and silvery-green foliage. This versatile green plant attracts pollinators, repels pests, and provides a calming scent to any garden or outdoor space.
Lavender Care Guide
Environment
Lavender thrives in open areas with full sun and good air circulation. Plant in well-draining soil in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Light
Full sun is essential for lavender to thrive and produce abundant blooms. Insufficient light will result in leggy growth and fewer flowers.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5-9, depending on variety. Prefers warm, dry conditions but can tolerate some frost. Protect from harsh winter winds in colder regions.
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Once established, lavender is drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions. Overwatering is the most common cause of problems.
Humidity
Prefers low humidity and good air circulation. Avoid planting in areas with poor air movement or high humidity.
Fertilizing
Minimal fertilizer needed. Apply a light application of balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Over-fertilizing reduces fragrance and can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Care Tips
- Plant in alkaline to neutral soil with excellent drainage. Add limestone to acidic soils.
- Space plants 2-3 feet apart to ensure good air circulation.
- Prune lightly after first flowering to promote a second bloom and maintain a compact shape.
- Cut back by about one-third in early spring to prevent the plant from becoming woody and leggy.
Common Problems
- Root rot from overwatering or poor drainage is the most common issue.
- Leggy growth indicates insufficient light or over-fertilization.
- Woody, sparse growth signals the need for proper pruning.
- Watch for spider mites during hot, dry periods.
Seasonal Care
Spring
Apply light fertilizer and prune back by one-third in early spring.
Summer
Harvest flowers when they're in full bloom, typically in mid-summer.
Fall
Reduce watering as temperatures cool. Avoid pruning in late fall in cold regions.
Winter
Minimal watering needed. In colder zones, mulch around the base for protection but keep mulch away from the crown.