To plant lavender successfully, follow these key steps:
When and Where to Plant
- Plant lavender in spring, ideally from March to May, after the last frost when the soil has warmed up
- Choose a location with full sun exposure (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily)
- Ensure the soil is free-draining, neutral to alkaline, and not heavy or waterlogged. If soil is heavy, improve drainage by adding horticultural grit or sand, or plant on a slight mound or raised bed to prevent waterlogging
Preparing the Soil
- Remove weeds, rocks, and debris from the planting area
- Amend soil with sand, gravel, or horticultural grit to improve drainage
- Add a little organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure for fertility, but lavender prefers relatively poor, well-draining soil
- Optionally, add a sprinkling of bonemeal or compost into the planting hole for nutrients
Planting Procedure
- Dig a hole twice the size of the lavender plant’s root ball
- Gently remove the plant from its pot and loosen the roots if they are tightly bound
- Place the lavender in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
- Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the base to remove air pockets
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil
Spacing
- Space plants about 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart to allow good air circulation and prevent overcrowding as they mature
Additional Tips
- For container planting, use terracotta pots with drainage holes and a compost mix with added grit for drainage
- Mulch lightly around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid heavy mulching which can retain too much moisture
- Water regularly during the first growing season to help establishment but avoid overwatering mature plants, as lavender is drought-tolerant and prone to root rot in wet conditions
By following these steps, you can establish healthy lavender plants that thrive in sunny, well-drained conditions and provide fragrant blooms
