Lavender Planting & Growing Instructions

Lavender Seed Germination Guide

Growing lavender from seeds can be a rewarding but somewhat challenging endeavor. Lavender seeds can be slow to germinate, and they require specific conditions to succeed. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to germinate lavender seeds successfully:

1. Choose the Right Lavender Seeds:
   • Select a reputable seed supplier to ensure good quality seeds.
   • Consider the lavender variety you want to grow, as different varieties may have slightly different germination requirements.
2. Timing:
   • Lavender seeds are typically started indoors, so you’ll want to plan your planting time accordingly. Start your seeds 6-10 weeks before your last expected frost date.
3. Seed Germination Requirements:
   • Lavender seeds require specific conditions for germination, including:
     • Warmth: Lavender seeds germinate best at temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
     • Light: Lavender seeds need light to germinate, so do not cover them with soil.
     • Well-Drained Soil: Use a well-draining seed starting mix.
4. Seed Stratification (Optional):
   • Some gardeners recommend cold-stratifying lavender seeds by placing them in the refrigerator for a few weeks before sowing. This can help break dormancy and improve germination rates. However, it’s not always necessary.
5. Sowing Lavender Seeds:
   • Fill seed trays or pots with a seed starting mix.
   • Moisten the mix, but make sure it’s not soaking wet.
   • Sprinkle lavender seeds evenly on the surface of the mix, pressing them gently into the soil without covering them.
6. Covering and Watering:
   • Place a plastic dome or plastic wrap over the trays to create a mini greenhouse effect.
   • Water lightly to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering, as lavender seeds are susceptible to damping off.
7. Germination Time:
   • Lavender seeds can take anywhere from 2-6 weeks (or even longer) to germinate, so be patient.
   • Keep the trays in a warm location with indirect sunlight.
8. Transplanting:
   • Once the lavender seedlings have developed a couple of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden, depending on your climate and the size of the seedlings.
   • Be gentle when handling the delicate seedlings to avoid damaging the roots.
9. Harden Off and Planting Out:
   • Before planting your lavender seedlings outdoors, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions by exposing them to increasing amounts of sunlight and reducing shelter over 1-2 weeks.
   • Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil for transplanting.
10. Care and Maintenance:
    • After transplanting, continue to water your lavender plants regularly until they establish themselves. Once established, they are drought-tolerant.
    • Prune your lavender plants regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess.

Growing lavender from seeds can be a bit more challenging than from cuttings or established plants, but with patience and the right conditions, you can successfully cultivate beautiful lavender plants from seed.

Lavender Seedling Care Guide

Lavender is a fragrant and versatile herb that’s relatively easy to grow from seedlings. Proper care is essential to ensure your lavender plants thrive. Here’s a care guide for lavender seedlings:

1. Seed Selection:
   • Start with high-quality lavender seeds from a reputable source. Consider the lavender variety that suits your climate and needs.
2. Seed Starting:
   • Plant lavender seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area. Lavender seeds require warmth to germinate.
   • Use well-draining seed-starting mix in trays or small pots. Moisten the mix before sowing seeds.
3. Sowing Seeds:
   • Lavender seeds are tiny, so sprinkle them lightly on the surface of the soil, pressing them gently into the mix without covering them completely. They need light to germinate.
   • Keep the seeds spaced about 1-2 inches apart.
4. Germination:
   • Lavender seeds typically take 2-4 weeks to germinate. Maintain a consistent temperature between 70-75°F (21-24°C) for successful germination.
   • Consider using a heat mat or placing the trays in a warm location to help speed up germination.
5. Light and Airflow:
   • Provide bright, indirect light or fluorescent grow lights for 14-16 hours a day to ensure healthy growth.
   • Good air circulation is essential to prevent damping-off and fungal issues. Use a small fan if necessary.
6. Transplanting:
   • When the lavender seedlings have grown two sets of true leaves, they are ready for transplanting.
   • Carefully transplant them into larger pots with well-draining potting mix, spacing them 2-3 inches apart.
7. Harden Off:
   • Before transplanting your lavender seedlings into the garden, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions. Start by placing them outdoors in a sheltered spot for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the time and exposure to sunlight over a week or two.
8. Outdoor Planting:
   • Plant your lavender seedlings in the garden once the risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. Space them according to the variety’s requirements (typically 18-24 inches apart).
   • Follow the same guidelines for location, soil, watering, pruning, and maintenance as mentioned in the previous lavender planting and growing instructions.
9. Watering Seedlings:
   • Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged when the lavender seedlings are young. As they mature, gradually reduce watering to encourage drought tolerance.
10. Mulching and Weeding:
    • Apply mulch around the base of the seedlings to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep the mulch away from the stems to prevent rot.
11. Fertilization:
    • Lavender seedlings do not require heavy fertilization. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer sparingly during the growing season.
12. Pruning:
    • Prune the lavender seedlings lightly in their first year to promote bushy growth. Remove any dead or woody stems.
13. Pest and Disease Management:
    • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and take action promptly if any issues arise.

Lavender can be a lovely addition to your garden, providing aromatic beauty and potential culinary and medicinal uses. With the right care, your lavender seedlings should thrive and reward you with their delightful fragrance and vibrant blooms.

Post-Transplant Lavender Care Guide

Caring for lavender plants after transplanting is crucial to ensure their successful establishment and long-term growth. Here is a post-transplant lavender care guide to help your lavender thrive:

1. Watering:
   • Water newly transplanted lavender thoroughly immediately after planting to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets around the roots.
   • For the first few weeks after transplanting, water the lavender regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
   • Once established (usually after the first year), reduce the frequency of watering. Lavender prefers slightly dry conditions and can tolerate drought.
2. Pruning:
   • Pruning is essential after transplanting to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess. Cut back about one-third of the top growth, leaving a well-shaped plant.
   • Trim any dead or woody stems.
   • Avoid cutting into old wood, as lavender may not regenerate from older, woody stems.
3. Mulching:
   • Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Mulch also helps to regulate soil temperature.
4. Fertilization:
   • Avoid fertilizing newly transplanted lavender for the first year. Lavender generally doesn’t require much fertilizer.
   • In subsequent years, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer sparingly in the spring.
5. Protecting from Pests and Diseases:
   • Keep an eye out for common lavender pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Treat infestations promptly with natural remedies or insecticidal soap.
   • Monitor for signs of disease, such as leaf spots or root rot, and address them promptly through pruning or using appropriate fungicides.
6. Winter Protection:
   • In regions with harsh winters, consider providing some winter protection for your lavender.
   • Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant in late fall to insulate the roots and prevent freezing.
   • Consider covering the lavender with a breathable fabric or burlap during extreme cold spells, removing the cover during milder periods.
7. Rejuvenation Pruning:
   • Lavender plants tend to become woody and less productive over time. To rejuvenate older plants, cut them back by one-third in early spring before new growth begins.
   • This will encourage new growth and improve the plant’s overall health.
8. Air Circulation:
   • Proper air circulation is essential to prevent humidity-related issues. Avoid overcrowding lavender plants and ensure they have adequate spacing.
9. Deadheading:
   • Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and a tidier appearance.

With proper post-transplant care, your lavender plants should establish themselves well and provide you with years of fragrant beauty and utility in your garden. Remember that lavender is a hardy and drought-tolerant plant once established, so avoid over-caring for it, especially with excess watering or fertilizer.