How to Plant and Prune Lavender

Plants have traits that are good for the garden and one such plant is Lavender. It is from the mint family and was first only grown in France and the Mediterranean region. Lavender is fragrant and although it is primarily grown for the aromatic oil, it is also used as a fragrant herb for crafting and decorations. Similar to other mint plants, it too can become invasive, gradually taking over a larger area than you may have anticipated.

Planting Lavender

Lavender grows well in all soils, but grows best in a soil that is well-drained and sandy for its alkalinity. Acidic soil can be neutralized by adding limestone before planting to obtain a pH level between 6.4 and 8.2. It also grows best when being propagated by root divisions. Stems cut in the spring root much faster compared to fall trimmings.

Lavender Seeds

The seeds of Lavender are either brown or black and are oval in shape. They are gathered on a sunny day in late summer soon after they have began to dry. Set a paper bag beneath the flower heads and shake. Lay some seeds on top of sandy compost in a pot and top with a thin layer of compost. Set out of direct sunlight and moisten them periodically.

Slightly larger pots may be needed before spring arrives. Use an airtight container or baggie to store additional seed, keep them in a dark location and use within a year. Lavender seed kept over a year may not germinate.

Rooting Stem Cuttings

Whether from springtime or the fall, cut stems produce plants much quicker than seed and is the easiest method. Cut a healthy four inch length including the heel part. Dip in rooting powder or solution and plant one inch deep in sandy compost. An alternate for rooting powder is to dip the stem in cinnamon 1/3 inch deep. Slightly dampen and set out of sunlight. Growth should appear in six weeks, and roots by the end of August when it can then be planted outdoors.

If you have harsh winters you may choose to keep it indoors until after the last frost the following spring. Lavender in a pot needs no more than two inches of soil around the root ball. Water as needed and fertilize once each month during the winter.

Dried Lavender

Here is page describing items to make with dried Lavender. It opens in a separate window. 

How to Prune Lavender

Trimming back the floral spike shortly above the bloom helps the plants to grow fuller in the first year of growth. English varieties need pruning in the spring and again in early fall to keep it even. As a perennial, it may thrive for two decades. Tall lavender can be pruned back to one third of its height. Lower growing varieties can be trimmed a couple of inches or down to the new growth. New growth should always appear before pruning in the spring. 

Potential Infection

Root rot may develop in soil that is overly wet for a period of time. Improving the drainage and raising the soil should help lessen the chance for infection to take hold. Lavender plants may require protection from harsh cold winds throughout the winter and will stay healthier planted near a solid fence or wall. Another way to help keep them warm is to lay mulch or straw over the soil. Air circulation can be increased by pruning around the base at the stem.

A Fragrant Addition

Lavender makes a fragrant addition both indoors and out. Whether in your garden or home, the scent is calming and the plant serves many purposes. By the time the end of summer approaches, you may find yourself in need of some tips and ideas on how to use Lavender.

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