Lavender Planting & Growing Guide

Where to Plant

Lavender can be easily grown in both containers and outdoor gardens, craving little more than well-drained soil and a spot that receives full-day sun. Very light shade will also work in regions where the sun is particularly intense. If you notice puddles of water 5–6 hours after a hard rain, scout out another site or amend the soil with organic material to raise the level 2–3 inches. Lavender prefers lean, well-drained soil and requires a place that's on the dry side during the winter months.

When to Plant

Lavender should be planted in the spring or early summer for the best results, well after the danger of frost has passed. However, those gardening in warmer regions can plant in early fall to give the roots time to get established during the cooler months. You can expect root and top growth to develop quickly, forming new leaves in 2 to 3 weeks. Flowers will arrive during the summer and typically last for several weeks.

How to Plant

• For outdoor landscape planting, find a spot with well-draining soil that receives plenty of sunlight. Check the mature size and spacing information provided with each Lavender variety and plan your placement accordingly. Dig holes and situate so the soil level on the root ball in the pot is even with the surrounding soil. Then, tuck the plants in and tamp down the soil to remove any air pockets.
• For container planting, start with good quality, well-drained, lean potting soil to which some perlite or cactus mix has been added. Choose containers with adequate drainage holes that will accommodate the mature size of your plant. Dig holes and situate so the soil level on the root ball in the pot is even with the surrounding soil. Then, tuck the plants in and tamp down the soil to remove any air pockets.
• Water thoroughly, soaking the soil to settle it around the plants.

How to Grow

• Provide supplemental water as needed in the spring and summer, with about 1" of moisture per week as a fair estimate. Once established, Lavender is fairly drought-tolerant.
• Allow the soil to dry out in the late fall and winter months.
• Trim your plants to shape them at any point in the year, but avoid pruning to the ground, as Lavender is woody and requires some foliage for survival.
• Remove dead stems or spent flowers to keep your plants looking their best.
• Allow your Lavender plants to rest for a few months before beginning the next growing cycle.

Lavender Tips & Tricks

• Amend the soil with finely ground bark, decomposed manure, or compost to improve drainage and encourage a healthy start.
• Apply a layer of mulch around your Lavender plant to suppress weeds reduce evaporation.
• Bear in mind that the growth speed depends on soil and air temperatures - the warmer the temperature, the faster the growth.
• Feel free to cut flowers when just beginning to open for arrangements, bouquets, or crafts.
• Take into consideration that occasional deep waterings are better than frequent lighter drinks.
• Expect your Lavender's foliage to dry and fade with the onset of colder temperatures in late fall; in warmer regions Lavender is evergreen.