How To Plant, Grow And Care For English Lavender

The popular aromatic herb English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is prized for its silvery-green foliage and scented purple blossoms. Originating in the Mediterranean, it can withstand drought and grows best in bright, well-draining soil.

This perennial plant, which draws bees and other pollinators, is frequently used in gardens, borders, and pots. English lavender is valued for its essential oils, which are utilized in aromatherapy, cosmetics, and culinary applications, in addition to its aesthetic appeal.

It needs little care, though frequent trimming will help to promote bushy growth and get rid of spent blooms. Any garden setting is enhanced by the beauty, aroma, and adaptability of English lavender.

English lavender isn't difficult to care for if you give it the right conditions. Here's how you can care for your English Lavender plant:

Light

English Lavender requires full sun which means it should be planted in an area that receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Shaded areas will result in the development of longer stems and fewer flowers.

Nevertheless, having some amount of shade, particularly during the hottest period of the day is advantageous to the plants. It facilitates the provision of sufficient light for growth and flowering while minimizing heat stress within the plant.

Water

English lavender also thrives well in arid climates, so it only requires additional water when there is a water scarcity. When watering newly planted plants, water them frequently in the first few weeks, every other day in the first week, then once or twice in the second week, until the roots are well-established.

But occasionally, especially in winter or in colder locations where lavender is grown in containers, the plant could need a little water to stay healthy all year round.

Temperature

Although it thrives in heat, English lavender should be planted in an area that doesn't become too hot. Generally, ideal temperatures range from 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 30 degrees Celsius). When temperatures rise to extremely high levels, heat can be very harmful to plant growth and flowering.

Warmth and moderate temperatures in particular help English Lavender plants develop properly because extremes of temperature are bad for the health of the plants.

Humidity

English lavender does not grow well in high humidity and needs a moderate amount of humidity to thrive. The development of fungal infections and the general weakening of plants are the main issues caused by the high humidity.

To minimize humidity, this plant needs to be grown in well-drained soil with adequate air circulation, especially in the summer. This lessens the possibility of developing humidity problems while preserving the plant's strength.

Soil

English Lavender prefers to be grown in sandy or gritty, well-draining soils, which is similar to its natural environment in the Mediterranean region. Avoid using too humusy or water-retentive soil types since they can be rich or moist and cause root rot.

Fertilization

When caring for this plant, it's crucial to avoid adding compost or any other organic waste to avoid overfertilizing the plant, which will reduce the amount of blooms. Since most plants can develop on their own without assistance, fertilization is usually not necessary.

Pruning

English lavender needs to be pruned to promote healthy development and prevent bushiness. When new leaves start to show, trim them back by one-third to one-half of their height, staying slightly outside of the old leaves because the old wood might not regrow.

To promote a second flowering, light trimming can be done in the middle of summer following the initial blooming. Now is the ideal moment to prune the plant properly to bring it back to life and vibrancy.

English Lavender is generally easy to grow at home, requiring well-draining soil, full sun, minimal watering, and occasional pruning. It thrives in Mediterranean-like conditions and is fairly low maintenance.

When To Plant

English Lavender is recommended to be planted in spring once the soil has warmed up and there are no more possibilities of frost. This timing ensures that the plants can root well during the growing season so that they can grow strongly. Sowing is also possible in the fall if the area has enough time to prepare before winter arrives.

They also allow the lavender to endure the harsh winter and prepare for better rigidity in the spring season. When it comes to planting, timing is everything, the proper time allows for the foundation of healthy growth and beautiful blooms in the upcoming seasons.

Where To Plant

English Lavender prefers an open area that will receive full sunlight, that is, at least 6 hours of direct sunlight in a day. It prefers loose, friable, sandy loams, and should not be planted in heavy clay soils or in low-lying areas that may experience water-logging.

Proper drainage can be obtained mainly through planting on mounds or raised beds or on sloping grounds. Rock gardens are also suitable as this plant is drought-resistant and requires a well-drained soil type.

Location is very important for the plant to withstand natural conditions and provide adequate sunlight and well-draining soil for the lavender plant to bloom.

How To Plant

• Dig a hole slightly larger than the plant's root ball, ensuring it's deep enough to accommodate the roots without crowding.
• You can add a small amount of compost or aged manure to the bottom of the hole to provide nutrients, but avoid excessive organic matter that retains moisture.
• Gently remove the lavender plant from its container and place it in the center of the hole.
• Backfill with soil, pressing lightly to secure the plant.
• After planting, water the lavender thoroughly to settle the soil and ensure good root contact.
• Avoid overwatering, as English Lavender prefers dry conditions once established.
• Monitor the plant for watering needs, especially during the first few weeks after planting.

Here are common growing mistakes to avoid when cultivating English Lavender:

Overwatering

English Lavender can suffer from root rot especially if the soil remains waterlogged. After the plant is established, the soil should condition and dry, before it is watered again. A recommended watering is to water the plant heavily but less frequently, especially using water that drains well.

Planting in Compact or Waterlogged Soil

Root systems of lavender may suffer from oxygen deficiency because of compacted or waterlogged soil environments. This results in shallow roots, and in the long run, it may cause a decline in the plant’s general health.

Plant the bamboo in a place that has a good drainage system so that the root can develop well on the ground.

Planting in Shade

Lack of sunlight will lead to the stunted growth of the seedlings, reduced flowering, and incidences of pests and diseases. Select an area with full sun exposure for a least half of the day if you want your plant to be as productive as possible with flower development.

Not Providing Adequate Air Circulation

Air movement around lavender is minimal which makes it vulnerable to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. Space the plants so they are not too close to each other, in beds or containers, to ensure air circulates in between them.

Propagating English Lavender can be done through several methods:

1. Seeds: Start seeds indoors in pots about 10-12 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Use a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost.

2. From Cuttings: Take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems in spring or early summer. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end in the rooting hormone, and plant in a pot filled with a mix of sand and potting soil. Keep the soil lightly moist and provide indirect sunlight until roots develop.

3. Layering: In late spring or early summer, select a healthy, flexible stem near the base of the plant. Gently bend it down to the ground, make a small incision on the underside, and cover the incision with soil. Secure the stem with a small stake. Roots will form at the covered portion, and once established, you can cut the stem from the parent plant.

For English lavender to remain healthy and flourish to its full potential, regular potting, and repotting are essential procedures. Pick a pot with holes for drainage and fill it with a potting mix that drains properly. Plant the lavender, give it plenty of water, and set it in a bright spot. Its development is aided by intermittent spring fertilization and regular irrigation.

Examine the roots of the plant to see if it is root-bound before repotting. Repot in the spring, making sure the pot is a little bit bigger to allow for root growth. Replant in new potting mix after carefully removing the plant and trimming any extra roots.

Maintain regular care and give it plenty of water. In a container setting, lavender plants require proper potting and repotting techniques to avoid root congestion, preserve soil health, and guarantee the plants' endurance and vitality.

To maintain the health and survival of English lavender during the winter, there are a few essential activities that must be followed. To get rid of any dead or broken branches, start by giving the plant a mild trim. Be careful not to over-prune, as this could encourage fragile new growth. 

Mulch should be applied around the base to protect the roots from freezing weather. To ensure that the soil is neither overly dry nor flooded during dormancy, minimize the frequency of watering.

When cool evenings arrive, cover the lavender with a permeable material if the location is prone to excessive cold. Observe the plant for indications of stress and take quick action to resolve any problems.

There are several types of English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) cultivars, each with unique characteristics and features. Some popular English Lavender plant types include:

1. Hidcote Lavender: Known for its compact growth habit and deep purple flowers, Hidcote Lavender is a favorite for borders and edging in gardens. It has a strong fragrance and is prized for its ornamental value.

2. Munstead Lavender: Similar to Hidcote Lavender, Munstead Lavender is also compact but with slightly lighter purple flowers. It is drought-tolerant and suitable for containers, rock gardens, and borders.

3. Royal Velvet Lavender: This cultivar features dark purple flowers and a strong fragrance. It grows in a compact, rounded shape and is often used in herb gardens, borders, and as a fragrant addition to potpourri.

4. Alba Lavender: Also known as White Lavender, Alba Lavender produces white or pale pink flowers. It has a milder fragrance compared to traditional purple varieties and adds a soft, elegant touch to gardens and bouquets.

5. Rosea Lavender: This cultivar showcases pinkish-lavender flowers, adding a unique color variation to lavender gardens. It attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies and is suitable for both ornamental and culinary uses.

6. Thumbelina Leigh Lavender: A dwarf variety, Thumbelina Leigh Lavender has compact growth and delicate purple flowers. It's ideal for small gardens, rockeries, and container planting.

7. Ellagance Purple Lavender: Known for its long-lasting blooms and strong fragrance, Ellagance Purple Lavender is a popular choice for landscaping, borders, and cutting gardens.

English Lavender is generally resistant to many pests and diseases, but it can still encounter some common issues. Here are a few pests and diseases that may affect English Lavender:

• Aphids: These small insects feed on plant sap and can cause distorted growth and yellowing of leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.

• Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause stippling on leaves and webbing in severe infestations. Rinse the plant with water or use insecticidal soap to manage spider mites.

• Lavender Leafhopper: Leafhoppers feed on plant sap and can cause yellowing or stippling of leaves. Prune affected areas and use insecticidal soap if needed.

• Fungal Diseases: Lavender can be susceptible to fungal diseases like root rot, powdery mildew, and gray mold (Botrytis). Ensure good air circulation, avoid overwatering, and use fungicidal treatments if necessary.

• Lavender Witches' Broom: This disease causes abnormal growth and clustering of branches, resembling a broom. Prune affected areas and dispose of infected plant parts to prevent spread.

• Lavender Downy Mildew: This fungal disease appears as yellowing and wilting of leaves, often with grayish-purple fungal growth on the undersides. Remove and destroy infected plants to prevent spread.