From Stress Relief to Property Value: 10 Unexpected Benefits of Lavender Hedges

Lavender’s popularity has surged in recent years, with the global lavender oil market value1 projected to reach $124.2 million in 2024. This aromatic herb isn’t just a pretty face in the garden; it’s a powerhouse of benefits that can transform your outdoor space and your life. 

Here’s why planting a lavender hedge might be the best decision you’ll make for your yard this year.

1. Natural Stress Reliever

lavender blooms
Image Credit: Pixelshop/Deposit Photos

Imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by the calming scent of lavender. Studies have shown that inhaling lavender oil can significantly reduce stress levels and improve mood.(ref) A lavender hedge can turn your garden into a personal aromatherapy oasis.

2. Boost Property Value

From Stress Relief to Property Value: 10 Unexpected Benefits of Lavender Hedges - spanish lavender farm dp211035700
Image Credit: AlexGukBO/Deposit Photos

Lavender’s aesthetic appeal can increase your property’s curb appeal and potentially its value. Real estate experts suggest that well-maintained landscaping can add up to 20% to your home’s value.(ref) A beautiful lavender hedge could be a wise investment for homeowners looking to sell in the future.

3. Low-Maintenance Beauty

From Stress Relief to Property Value: 10 Unexpected Benefits of Lavender Hedges - lavender in pot ss1454579813
Image Credit: Annie Shropshire/Shutterstock

Unlike many ornamental plants, lavender is drought-resistant and requires minimal care once established. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it an ideal choice for busy homeowners or those living in areas with water restrictions.

4. Attract Beneficial Pollinators

From Stress Relief to Property Value: 10 Unexpected Benefits of Lavender Hedges - bee on lavender dp130557254

Bees and butterflies are essential for a healthy ecosystem, and they love lavender. By planting a lavender hedge, you’re creating a haven for these important pollinators, which can lead to a more vibrant and productive garden overall.

5. Natural Pest Repellent

From Stress Relief to Property Value: 10 Unexpected Benefits of Lavender Hedges - Cutting English Lavender dp47990219
Image Credit: re_bekka/Deposit Photos

Say goodbye to chemical insecticides. Lavender’s strong scent naturally repels many common garden pests, including mosquitoes, flies, and moths. It can even deter larger pests like deer and rabbits from nibbling on your other plants.

6. Culinary Delights

From Stress Relief to Property Value: 10 Unexpected Benefits of Lavender Hedges - lavender dp205638212
Image Credit: Xalanx/Deposit Photos

Lavender isn’t just for looking at or smelling; it’s edible too! Its flowers can be used to add a unique flavor to desserts, teas, and even savory dishes. Growing your own means you’ll always have fresh lavender on hand for culinary experiments.

7. Potential Income Source

From Stress Relief to Property Value: 10 Unexpected Benefits of Lavender Hedges - lavender oil dp43235839
Image Credit: Amaviael/Deposit Photos

With a bit of entrepreneurial spirit, your lavender hedge could become a small business. Dried lavender bouquets, sachets, and essential oils are in high demand. A 50-foot hedge can produce up to 300 bunches of lavender per year, potentially earning you extra income.

8. Year-Round Interest

From Stress Relief to Property Value: 10 Unexpected Benefits of Lavender Hedges - lavender ss2475625923
Image Credit: romeovip_md/Shutterstock

Even when not in bloom, lavender’s silvery-green foliage provides visual interest to your garden. In many regions, it remains evergreen, ensuring your hedge looks attractive throughout the year.

9. Aromatherapy Benefits

From Stress Relief to Property Value: 10 Unexpected Benefits of Lavender Hedges - lavender flowers ss1798159312
Image Credit: New Africa/Shutterstock

Beyond stress relief, lavender has been shown to improve sleep quality and duration. Having a lavender hedge near your bedroom window could lead to more restful nights and energized mornings.

10. Eco-Friendly Choice

From Stress Relief to Property Value: 10 Unexpected Benefits of Lavender Hedges - lavender growing pot dp74671317
Image Credit: robertprzybysz/Deposit Photos

Lavender requires less water than many traditional hedge plants, making it an environmentally conscious choice. Its drought tolerance means you can maintain a beautiful garden while conserving water, particularly important in areas prone to water shortages.

How to Care for Your Lavender Hedge

From Stress Relief to Property Value: 10 Unexpected Benefits of Lavender Hedges - lavender plant garden dp410465018
Image Credit: Syda_Productions/Deposit Photos

Now that you’re convinced to plant a lavender hedge, here’s a quick guide to keeping it healthy and thriving:

  • Plant in well-draining soil with full sun exposure
  • Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings
  • Prune in early spring or after flowering to maintain shape
  • Avoid over-fertilizing; lavender prefers poor soil
  • Mulch with gravel or sand to improve drainage and prevent root rot

With these simple care tips, your lavender hedge will flourish for years to come. Remember, the key to a beautiful lavender hedge is patience and consistent care, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

Source:
1. ATTRA Sustainable Agriculture

nancy
Author & Editor | + posts

Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.