Are you ready to cultivate the lush, vibrant, and fragrant lavender garden of your dreams? Growing this classic herb can be a breeze, but even the most experienced gardeners can fall victim to common mistakes.
Don’t let these pitfalls turn your lavender dreams into a nightmare. Here are the top seven lavender growing mistakes, ranked from most to least important, and show you how to avoid them like a pro.
1. Overwatering & Poor Drainage
Lavender is a drought-tolerant plant that hates having “wet feet.” Overwatering and poor drainage are the leading causes of root rot and fungal diseases in lavender. To avoid this mistake, plant lavender in well-draining soil and water only when the top inch of soil feels dry.
In humid climates, consider planting lavender in raised beds or containers with adequate drainage holes to prevent water from pooling around the roots.
2. Planting in the Wrong Type of Soil
Lavender thrives in lean, sandy, or gritty soil with a slightly alkaline pH (6.7-7.3). Planting lavender in heavy clay soil or soil that is too rich in nutrients can lead to poor growth, reduced flowering, and increased susceptibility to disease.
To ensure the best growing conditions, amend your soil with sand, gravel, or perlite to improve drainage and avoid using compost or other organic matter that can enrich the soil too much.
3. Choosing the Wrong Variety
Selecting a lavender variety that is not suited to your climate can result in poor performance or plant death. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is the most cold-hardy, surviving in zones 5-8, while French and Spanish lavenders are less cold-tolerant and better suited for warmer climates (zones 7-9).
Hybrid lavandins offer a balance of cold hardiness and heat tolerance, making them a versatile choice for zones 5-10. Research which varieties are best for your specific growing zone and climate.
4. Planting in Shade
Lavender requires full sun (at least 6-8 hours per day) to thrive and produce abundant, fragrant flowers. Planting lavender in shady locations can lead to weak growth, reduced flowering, and increased risk of fungal diseases.
To ensure your lavender receives enough sun, choose a south-facing location in your garden or opt for a sunny spot in a gravel garden or Mediterranean-style border.
5. Improper Pruning
Pruning lavender incorrectly or not at all can result in leggy, woody growth with reduced flowering and visual appeal. Pruning lavender lightly after flowering and more heavily in spring helps maintain a compact, attractive shape and promotes healthy growth.
Always prune just above the leaf nodes and avoid cutting into the woody base of the stems, as this can damage or kill the plant.
6. Crowding Plants
Lavender bushes need room to grow and maintain good air circulation. Planting them too close together can lead to competition for resources and increased risk of fungal diseases.
To avoid this mistake, space lavender plants 1-3 feet apart, depending on the variety and desired effect. For low-growing hedges, plant them 1 foot apart, while larger shrubs in a flower bed should be spaced 3 feet apart.
7. Neglecting to Protect Lavender in Winter
While some lavender varieties are more cold-hardy than others, most lavenders benefit from winter protection in colder climates. Neglecting to protect your lavender plants during the winter months can lead to damage or even death.
To avoid this mistake, cover your lavender plants with a layer of mulch, such as straw or pine needles, to insulate the roots and protect them from freezing temperatures. In areas with harsh winters, consider planting lavender in containers that can be moved to a sheltered location or indoors during the coldest months.
Lavender Should be Lovely
By steering clear of these common lavender growing mistakes and providing your plants with the proper growing conditions, you’ll be well on your way to cultivating a thriving, fragrant, and beautiful lavender garden that will be the envy of your neighborhood.
Remember to monitor your plants regularly for signs of stress, pests, or disease, and take action promptly to address any issues. With a little care and attention, your lavender will reward you with years of stunning blooms and heavenly fragrance.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.