Growing Lavender
(Lavendula vera, D. C.; L. Angustifolia, Moench.; L. spica, Linn.)
Name Origin:
From the Latin word Lavo, to wash, after a distillation of the flowers historically used in perfuming water for washing the body. We have two articles on the history of lavender - History of Lavender and Folklore and Medicinal Uses of Lavender.
Natural Order:
Labiatæ
Growing Cycle:
Half-hardy perennnial undershrub.
Origins:
Native of the dry, calcareous uplands in southern Europe.
Height:
Lavender grows in a compact clump that reaches 24-30 inches tall.
Characteristics:
Tall, numerous, erect stems with small grayish leaves.
Lavender Flowers:
Small, violet-blue flowers on a terminal spike.
How to Grow Lavender
(Sowing seeds, cultivating, propagating and harvest)
Lavender grows best in light, limy or chalky soil. Lavender enjoys a sunny location and poor soil will lead to a stronger fragrance. Rich soil will make for larger plants but a poorer aroma.
Sowing Lavender Seeds.
Sow lavender seeds indoors in March. Pinch out seedlings to retain 2 inches of spacing between lavender plants. When the ground is warm, plant 15-20 inches apart. The tall flower spikes are susceptible to breakage in windy conditions; plants may need to be planted in a protected part of the garden. Seeds remain viable for around 5 years.
Before planting lavender in your garden, you might find it helpful to consult our lavender companion planting guide.
Lavender Propagation.
Cuttings are the primary way of propogating lavender. Young wood may be cut in August or April and placed directly into the soil. Do not allow to flower the first year to provide all of the plant's strength into growing a strong root system. Lavender generally produces quality pickings and many commercial growers replace their plants every five years.
Lavender Cultivation.
When the ground is warm, plant seedlings 15-20 inches apart. In colder climates, lavender must be protected or housed in a greenhouse or cold frame that can be covered during severe weather. Lavender pruning should be done in March
Harvesting Lavender.
Cut the entire flower stem. This makes it easier to dry the flowers as well as encourages new growth. If cutting for oil production, wait until all of the blooms are fully developed to ensure the maximum amount of esters(scent) are present and harvest as early in the day as possible.
Lavender Uses
Lavender is sometimes grown for a condiment and used as an addition to salads and dressings, but its primary use is in perfumery. Lavender cookies are a special treat and we just happen to have a great lavender cookie recipe.
There was a time that a young girl was only considered prepared for marriage when, with her own hands, she had made her own linen and stored it with lavender.