How to Plant Lavender From Seed

Choosing Lavender Seeds: How To Plant Lavender From Seed

How to plant lavender from seed – Selecting the right lavender seeds is crucial for successful cultivation. Different varieties exhibit unique characteristics impacting growth, appearance, and fragrance. Choosing seeds from reputable suppliers ensures seed viability and accurate variety identification. This section will compare several beginner-friendly lavender varieties and highlight the importance of sourcing from trusted vendors.

Lavender Seed Variety Comparison

Several lavender varieties are particularly well-suited for beginners due to their hardiness and ease of cultivation. Below is a comparison of three popular choices, highlighting their bloom time, mature height, and hardiness zones.

Variety	Bloom Time	Height (inches)	Hardiness Zones
Lavandula angustifolia ‘Munstead’	Early Summer	18-24	5-8
Lavandula x intermedia ‘Provence’	Mid-Summer	24-36	5-9
Lavandula dentata ‘Goodwin Creek Grey’	Late Spring/Early Summer	18-24	7-10

Importance of Reputable Suppliers

Purchasing seeds from reputable suppliers is vital. Reputable suppliers ensure seed viability, accurate variety labeling, and often provide germination guides and growing tips. Buying from untrustworthy sources can lead to low germination rates, incorrect varieties, or even contaminated seeds.

Starting Lavender Seeds Indoors

Starting lavender seeds indoors provides a head start, allowing for earlier blooms and increased success. This section details the ideal conditions and steps for sowing lavender seeds indoors.

Ideal Germination Conditions

Lavender seeds require specific conditions for successful germination. Optimal temperatures range from 65-75°F (18-24°C). While they don’t need direct sunlight for germination, bright, indirect light is beneficial. A well-draining seed-starting mix is crucial to prevent damping off (a fungal disease).

Sowing Lavender Seeds

Follow these steps for sowing lavender seeds:

1. Fill seed trays or small pots with a well-draining seed-starting mix.
2. Scatter seeds thinly over the surface of the mix; do not bury them deeply.
3. Lightly mist the surface with water to moisten the soil.
4. Cover the trays with clear plastic wrap or a humidity dome to maintain moisture.
5. Place the trays in a warm location with bright, indirect light.
6. Maintain consistent moisture levels, avoiding overwatering.
7. Once seedlings emerge, remove the plastic wrap and gradually acclimate them to direct sunlight.

Preparing the Planting Site

Proper site preparation is essential for healthy lavender growth. Lavender thrives in sunny, well-drained locations with slightly alkaline soil. This section details the steps involved in preparing the ideal planting site.

Selecting a Suitable Location

Lavender needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Poor drainage leads to root rot, so select a location with well-drained soil. A slightly alkaline soil pH (6.5-7.5) is preferred. Avoid areas with consistently wet soil or low-lying areas prone to waterlogging.

Preparing the Soil

Improving drainage in heavy clay soil is crucial. Amend heavy clay soils by incorporating organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure. This improves drainage, aeration, and soil fertility.

Site Preparation Steps, How to plant lavender from seed

• Clear the area of weeds, grass, and debris.
• Till the soil to a depth of 12-18 inches.
• Incorporate organic matter into the soil, mixing thoroughly.
• Level the soil surface.

Transplanting Lavender Seedlings

Transplanting lavender seedlings requires care to avoid damaging the delicate roots. Proper spacing ensures adequate air circulation and prevents overcrowding. This section details the process of transplanting lavender seedlings from seed trays to the garden.

Transplanting Seedlings

Gently remove seedlings from their seed trays, taking care not to damage the roots. Plant seedlings at the same depth they were growing in the seed tray. Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for adequate growth and air circulation. Water gently after transplanting to prevent transplant shock.

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

Consistent care is necessary for healthy lavender growth. This includes regular watering, weeding, mulching, and occasional fertilization. This section provides a monthly care schedule for your lavender plants.

Watering Schedule

Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Adjust watering frequency based on weather conditions and soil moisture.

Monthly Care Schedule

Month	Watering	Fertilizing	Deadheading
Spring	Deep watering as needed	Light feeding with balanced fertilizer	Remove spent flowers
Summer	Regular watering, especially during hot, dry spells	No fertilization needed	Regular deadheading
Autumn	Reduce watering frequency	No fertilization needed	Minimal deadheading
Winter	Water sparingly, only if soil is very dry	No fertilization needed	None

Harvesting and Drying Lavender

Harvesting lavender at the peak of its bloom ensures optimal fragrance and quality. Proper drying methods are crucial for preserving the lavender’s scent and color. This section details the process of harvesting and drying lavender.

Optimal Harvest Time

Harvest lavender when most of the flowers on a stem are open but before they begin to fade. The best time is typically in the morning after the dew has dried.

Drying Methods

• Hanging Bunches: Tie small bunches of lavender together and hang them upside down in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area.
• Using a Dehydrator: Place lavender flowers in a dehydrator set to a low temperature (around 95°F or 35°C).

Question & Answer Hub

Can I start lavender seeds outdoors?

Starting lavender from seed requires patience; you’ll need to sow them indoors in early spring. The process is quite different from, say, how you plant pomegranate seeds, as detailed in this helpful guide: how do you plant pomegranate seeds. Once your lavender seedlings are established, you can carefully transplant them outdoors into well-draining soil, ensuring ample sunlight.

While possible in warmer climates, starting lavender seeds indoors is generally recommended for better germination rates and seedling protection.

How long does it take for lavender seeds to germinate?

Germination can take anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

What should I do if my lavender seedlings are leggy?

Leggy seedlings indicate insufficient light; increase light exposure or use grow lights.

When should I fertilize my lavender plants?

Lavender prefers well-drained soil and generally doesn’t require much fertilizer. A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is usually sufficient.