You can make a lovely wreath from its fresh flowers, construct a perfumed satchel for a linen drawer with its dried buds, or devise a beautiful food garnish with its purplish hue — It’s lavender! Beloved by countless homeowners for centuries, lavender is an undisputed favorite to cultivate in a home garden. Known by some as the “Queen of Herbs,” the plant is beautiful and useful at every stage of development.
A native to the Mediterranean, lavender is easy to grow outside and even thrives in poor, dry soil conditions. We absolutely love its alluring fragrance and charming ability to attract birds, bees, and butterflies. So, we’ve compiled some insider information to help you help your lavender thrive.
Types of Lavender to Grow
English lavender is popular due to it’s hardy and edible flowers. Lavandin is most commonly used in lavender-scented soaps and perfumes, while Spanish lavender is slightly less hardy than English lavender and features larger flowers. Lavender does best in dry and poor soil conditions, but if you live in a humid climate, you can still get your lavender fix with French lavender.
How and Where to Grow Lavender
Lavender requires full sun and very little water. Its prime growing season is from Spring to Summer, and it is best planted Spring through Fall. When you integrate lavender into your garden, you should first consider its environmental needs. Place it in full sun and be sure not to overwater it.
Plant your lavender in well-drained soil where the roots can grow deep in order to seek water. Because lavenders originate from the poor soils of the Mediterranean, they thrive with the addition of lime to the soil.
Source: Pixabay
Mixing Lavender into Your Garden
Place lavender plants 1 to 4 feet apart, and allow for plenty of air circulation between them. Be patient — it will take time for your lavender to grow out. Try combining it with other blue-toned plants, or for contrast, mix it with lime, yellow, or white plants.
Lifescape has the passion and expertise to help create your ideal garden landscape. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
