This versatile, fragrant evergreen shrub has many uses beyond the herb garden! Deep purple flower spikes above mounds of gray-green foliage provide great color to the front of shrub borders or spotted into the rock garden. Highly effective in mass plantings. Useful for perfumes, sachets, oils and medicinal purposes.

Lavender Care

Planting:

• Location: Full sun, 6-8 hours direct sunlight daily
• Soil: Excellent drainage essential; amend clay/compacted soil with compost or aged manure, or use raised beds
• Soil pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline (around 7.0); add lime if needed
• Technique: Dig hole twice as wide/deep as root ball; plant on slight mound if drainage is poor
• Spacing: 1-3 feet apart depending on variety

Watering:

• Water deeply but infrequently
• Allow soil to dry completely between waterings, especially for established plants
• Avoid overwatering

Pruning:

• Prune in spring only
• Cut back stems by no more than one-third
• Promotes more flowers and compact, mounded shape

Mulching:

• Use gravel mulch around base
• Keeps roots cool and prevents moisture buildup