Lavender Planting Guide
Planting Guide for Lavender
1. Site Selection
Lavender thrives in sunny, open locations with excellent air circulation. It prefers:
• Light Requirements: Full sun (6–8 hours daily).
• Airflow: Open spaces reduce humidity around foliage and prevent disease.
• Drainage: Poor drainage is the most common cause of lavender failure.
2. Spacing
• Spacing Needs:
◦ Compact varieties: 12–18 inches apart
◦ Larger varieties: 18–24 inches apart
• Proper spacing allows airflow and prevents root rot.
3. Soil Type
Lavender prefers:
• Fast-draining Soil: Sandy or gravelly soils are ideal.
• Neutral to Slightly Alkaline pH: Lavender does not require acidic soil.
• Minimal Amendments: Avoid rich composts or manure.
4. Planting Lavender
- Dig the Hole: Slightly wider than the root ball and no deeper than the container.
- Improve Drainage: Add sand or gravel if soil is heavy.
- Planting Depth: Keep the crown level with soil surface.
- Water Lightly: Water once after planting, then allow soil to dry slightly between watering.
5. Watering
• Establishment Period: Water regularly during the first growing season.
• Once Established: Lavender is drought tolerant and prefers infrequent watering.
6. Fertilizing
• Fertilizer Needs: Minimal. Excess fertilizer reduces fragrance and flower production.
• Best Practice: Skip fertilizing unless soil is extremely poor.
7. Pruning
• Timing: Light pruning after flowering and again in early spring.
• Purpose: Encourages bushy growth and prevents woody stems.