Lavender is a versatile plant with numerous culinary, medicinal, and decorative uses. Adding lavender to your garden brings beauty and fragrance from late spring to fall. Many species and hybrids exist, but some common varieties are easy to propagate. How does it grow and where?
Growing Conditions and Varieties:
- Climate Zones:
- English Lavender (Zones 5-8): (Lavandula angustifolia) This popular variety thrives in cooler climates and is known for its hardiness and sweet fragrance. Popular varieties include Hidcote, Munstead, and Buena Vista.
- Lavandin Hybrids (Zones 5-10): These late-blooming hybrids of English Lavender are known for their high essential oil content, large leaves, and fast growth.
- French Lavender (Zone 8): (Lavandula dentata) This fast-growing variety has beautiful purple-blue flowers and prefers warmer regions. Some varieties are grown as annuals. French lavender has a light fragrance with hints of rosemary.
- Spanish Lavender (Zones 7-10): (Lavandula stoechas) Spanish lavender tolerates humidity better than other varieties and has unique, cone-shaped flowers. It’s a good choice for focal points and containers.
- General Tips:
- English lavender prefers cooler climates (Zone 5 and above) but may need winter protection.
- Spanish and French lavender are better choices for hot, humid climates. Good spacing is essential.
- Container growing is an option for harsh winters. Provide at least 8 hours of sunlight and well-draining potting mix. Containers can be brought indoors during winter.
Seeds or Transplants?
You can grow lavender from seeds or by transplanting store-bought plants.
- Transplants: Choose healthy-looking plants and place them in a location with full sun for 8 hours a day. Water consistently until established. Prune annually in spring.
- Seeds: Growing from seed takes up to three years for usable plants. Seed indoors for consistent temperature and moisture. Plant seeds 1 inch apart, barely covered with potting mix. Keep the container moist and warm (65-70°F).
- Hardening Off: Once seedlings reach 2-3 inches, gradually increase light exposure to prepare them for outdoors. Once acclimated, transplant them to well-drained soil with full sun.
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