How to Grow Lavender from Seed: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
Introduction
Lavender is a beautiful and fragrant herb that can add a touch of elegance to any garden. Growing lavender from seed is a rewarding experience, but it does require some patience and care. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps involved in growing lavender from seed, from choosing the right variety to transplanting the seedlings.
Choosing the Right Variety
Not all lavender varieties are suitable for growing from seed. Some cultivars, such as ‘Hidcote’ and ‘Munstead’, are known to come true from seed, meaning that the plants will have the same characteristics as the parent plant. Other varieties, such as ‘Grosso’ and ‘Provence’, are better propagated by cuttings or divisions.
Germinating Lavender Seeds
Lavender seeds are slow to germinate, taking anywhere from one to three months. To increase the chances of germination, start the seeds indoors in late winter or early spring.
- Fill a seed tray or pot with a light soil mix or vermiculite blend.
- Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and barely cover them with soil.
- Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Place the seed tray in a warm location, between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18-21 degrees Celsius).
- Cover the seed tray with plastic wrap or a humidity dome to maintain moisture.
Transplanting Lavender Seedlings
Once the lavender seedlings have developed several leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into the garden.
- Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for a week or two before transplanting.
- Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
- Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the seedling.
- Place the seedling in the hole and fill in around the roots with soil.
- Water the seedling deeply.
Growing Lavender Plants
Lavender plants are relatively low-maintenance, but they do require some basic care to thrive.
- Watering: Lavender plants are drought-tolerant, but they will benefit from regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize lavender plants once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Pruning: Prune lavender plants after they have finished blooming to encourage new growth and prevent the plants from becoming leggy.
Tips for Growing Healthy Lavender Plants from Seed
- Use fresh, high-quality seeds.
- Start the seeds indoors in a warm location.
- Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Transplant the seedlings into individual pots or the garden once they have developed several leaves.
- Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
- Water the plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilize the plants once a year in the spring.
- Prune the plants after they have finished blooming.
Conclusion
Growing lavender from seed is a rewarding experience that can add beauty and fragrance to your garden. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully grow healthy lavender plants from seed.
