Planting Lavender
Seeds - If you do choose to start with lavender seeds, plant in a small container that drains well and keep them damp in a spot that gets several hours of sun each day. As the plants grow, gradually allow the soil to get drier between watering. Too much water will harm and eventually kill lavender plants. When the plants reach 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) set the pots outside for a few hours each day to acclimate them to the environment where they will eventually be planted. After a week or so of getting used to the outdoors, the plants will be ready to go into the ground. Plant seed in multiple pots to improve your opportunity for success. Germination rates for lavender seeds can be as low as 10%. Plants - Choosing a lavender plant from a nursery or store is not difficult. Just ensure that the plant looks healthy with the majority of the leaves a green or gray color (not brown) and not curled. Some shoots on the plant with lighter green leaves is evidence of recent growth and is a positive sign. Most lavender varieties are hardy and do well in the transplanting process. If you have a lavender plant already and would like more of the same, it is quite simple to propagate lavender from cuttings off an established plant. Location - Lavender is a sun loving plant, so be sure to choose a location that gets plenty. Full sun all day isn't required, but choose a spot that will provide at least a few hours of sun each day. Avoid locations that will be sprinkled with water from lawn sprinklers. In some cases this can promote the growth of fungus and bacterial diseases and can cause the plant to droop and lose its shape. Soil - When planting lavender one of the most important factors is soil preparation. The soil must be able to drain well. Lavender roots will not tolerate being wet over a long period of time. Mix approximately equal parts of sand, compost and native soil for your plant. If the native soil has a high clay content, use a smaller percentage. Lavender prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil. If your soil tends to be acidic, consider a soil additive such as lime that will bring the pH to 7 or slightly higher. Planting - Dig a hole that is approximately 3 times as big around as the pot and twice as deep. Fill the hole about half way with your prepared soil. Remove the plant from the pot and place in the center of the hole, loosening the soil around the roots a little. The height of the plant should be such that the root ball will be slightly below the final soil level. Fill the remainder of the hole with the prepared soil, covering the root ball about 1 inch (2.5 cm). Fertilizing - A slow release natural fertilizer such as bone meal or fish emulsion can be added to the soil when planting lavender and no more than twice each year thereafter. Root stimulating hormone can also be added during planting and will give the roots a boost of growth in their new environment. Watering - Keep the soil damp during the first couple of weeks after planting lavender. After that, water only when the ground is dry, but before the plant shows signs of stress. Lavender is very drought tolerant, thrives in hot dry climates and is great for low water usage landscaping (xeriscaping). If you don't live in such a dry area, lavender will still do fine as long as the roots are able to drain well between rains. Planting lavender can be a very rewarding experience. Not only are your chances of success high if you follow these simple tips, but you'll also be able to enjoy the wonderful smelling blooms that have so many uses. From cooking with lavender to aromatherapy and lavender , there are a plethora of possibilities with this wonderful plant. Buy Lavender Products
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