Growing Lavender in Cold Climates: A Comprehensive Guide for Zone 4 Gardeners
Are you a lavender lover living in a cooler region? Don’t despair! While some lavender varieties may only thrive as annuals in USDA zones 4 and below, there are still plenty of options for growing your own fragrant lavender plants.
Choosing the Right Lavender Varieties
The key to success in growing lavender in cold climates is choosing the right varieties. Look for lavender plants that are specifically labeled as “zone 4 lavender plants.” Some of the best varieties for zone 4 include:
- Munstead: Hardy from zones 4 to 9, Munstead produces lovely lavender-blue flowers and has narrow, green foliage. It grows to a height of 12 to 18 inches and requires very little care once established.
- Hidicote: Another good choice for zone 4, Hidicote has gray foliage and purple flowers. It is a shorter variety, reaching only about a foot in height.
- Phenomenal: A newer hybrid variety, Phenomenal thrives in zones 4 to 8. It grows taller than Munstead or Hidicote, reaching 24 to 34 inches in height, and has lavender-blue blossoms with silver foliage.
Tips for Growing Lavender in Zone 4
Once you’ve chosen your lavender varieties, follow these tips for success:
- Provide plenty of sun: Lavender needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive.
- Ensure well-draining soil: Lavender does not tolerate wet feet, so make sure your soil drains well. Amend it with compost and potash before planting.
- Plant at the right time: Wait until all danger of frost has passed for your area before planting lavender.
- Water wisely: Water lavender deeply, but allow the soil to dry out before watering again.
- Prune regularly: In the winter, prune back new growth by 2/3 of the stem length to encourage bushier growth.
- Protect from cold: If you don’t get a reliable snow cover, protect your lavender plants from drying winds and chilly temps by covering them with straw or dry leaves and then with burlap.
How to Protect Lavender from Cold
In zone 4, it’s important to take extra steps to protect your lavender plants from the cold. Here are a few tips:
- Mulch around your plants: A layer of mulch around your lavender plants will help to insulate the roots and protect them from freezing.
- Cover your plants with burlap: Burlap is a breathable fabric that will allow air to circulate while still protecting your plants from the cold.
- Use row covers: Row covers are a great way to protect your lavender plants from both cold and pests.
Benefits of Growing Lavender
Growing lavender in your zone 4 garden offers a number of benefits, including:
- Beautiful flowers: Lavender produces beautiful, fragrant flowers that can add color and beauty to your garden.
- Versatile herb: Lavender is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of ways, including culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic applications.
- Attracts pollinators: Lavender flowers are a magnet for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.
- Repels pests: The scent of lavender is said to repel certain pests, such as mosquitoes and aphids.
With a little care and attention, you can successfully grow lavender in your zone 4 garden and enjoy its beauty and benefits for years to come.
