Lavender
Lavandula spp.
Quick Care Guide
Prune: Trim back after blooming to maintain shape and encourage new growth
Sunlight: Needs 6+ hours of full sun
Water: Weekly, allow soil to dry out between waterings
Fertilize: Feed lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer
Leaves: Silvery, narrow, and aromatic
Flowers: Purple, blue, or white spikes in summer
Pruning
Lavender benefits from light pruning to maintain a compact shape and prevent it from becoming leggy. After the blooming season, cut back spent flower stems and trim about 1/3 of the plant’s growth. This will help the plant stay healthy and encourage new growth for the next season. Be careful not to cut too deeply into the woody stems, as lavender may not regrow from old wood.
Watering
Lavender is drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering is essential during the growing season. Water deeply once a week or when the top few inches of soil feel dry. Avoid overhead watering and ensure that the soil drains well to prevent root rot. Lavender does not like to sit in soggy soil, so make sure it is planted in well-draining areas.
Leaves
Lavender’s leaves are narrow, silvery-green, and highly aromatic. When brushed, they release a distinctive, soothing fragrance that is one of the plant’s signature features. The foliage is evergreen in mild climates, but may die back in colder temperatures.
Sunlight
Lavender thrives in full sun and needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It prefers bright, open spaces with plenty of light to encourage the best flowering and growth. Insufficient sunlight can result in poor flowering and a weaker plant.
Fertilization
Lavender does not require heavy fertilization. In early spring, a light feeding with a balanced fertilizer is beneficial to kickstart growth. Avoid fertilizing heavily, as this can result in excessive foliage and fewer flowers. Over-fertilization can also make the plant more susceptible to disease.
Flowers
Lavender flowers are typically purple, though some varieties produce blue or white blooms. The flowers grow in tall, spiky clusters that are highly fragrant. Lavender typically blooms in mid to late summer, making it a popular choice for both ornamental and culinary gardens.