did you know?

The Romans very likely brought lavender to Britain, where it became a garden staple. In the Middle Ages, Benedictine monks sang its praises as a medicine, and London peddlers hawked it as a charm against evil, an aphrodisiac (and paradoxically, an aid to chastity), and a plague remedy. Besides the rose, lavender is the only common flower that retains its fragrance when dried.

general maintenance:

To encourage lateral branching, pinch plants throughout first year and thereafter in spring. After flowering, cut back plants by one-third, and water thoroughly.

pests/diseases:

Fusarium, leaf spot, and root, stem, and leaf rot may occur.

controls:

For fusarium and leaf spot, remove diseased plants and reduce soil moisture. For root, stem, and leaf rot, remove diseased foliage and reduce soil moisture.

how to sow/plant:

Start with new plants, spring divisions, or summer cuttings; set 1 foot apart for miniature hedges or 4?6 feet apart for natural growth. Starting from seed is not recommended because of plant variability. Amend soil with coarse sand and mulch with builders sand or fine gravel to help prevent fungal diseases common in climates with high humidity. Lavender is suitable for container growing, which is recommended in cold climates.

water and fertilize:

Do not overwater; allow soil to dry between watering. Additional fertilizer is not recommended for plants in the ground. Feed container-grown plants biweekly with balanced fertilizer, following label directions.

garden hint:

Cut off buds that form on first-year plants to encourage stronger root production. In northern ranges of lavender's hardiness, plants should be grown in sheltered locations, such as the base of a sunny, south-facing wall protected from the winter wind.

features:

• Deer Resistant
• Drought Tolerant
• Fragrant

garden uses:

• Containers
• Edging
• Flowerbed borders
• Ground Cover
• Naturalizing

other uses:

• Culinary/Edible (flowers)
• Cut Flower
• Everlasting (>)
• Medicinal (has been used for headaches, stress, depression)
• Potpourri (oil extracts scent perfumes, soaps)

combine with:

beebalm feverfew foxglove sage and yarrow for a flowering herb or border garden.