Lavender provides not only fragrant and delicate esthetic charm to gardens but also provides various culinary and medicinal purposes. Furthermore, it blends seamlessly with gourmet cuisine, beverages, and skincare creations.
Imagine the enjoyment of growing your very own lavender and exploring the benefits, beauty, and aroma it can bring into your home. This guide is designed to provide an understanding of the growing process.
A Guide to Growing Lavender
Growing lavender is a straightforward process that enhances any home environment, indoors or in the garden. The key to having lavender flourish is to have well-drained soil, whether it is in a container or a garden bed. Additionally, selecting a location with a minimum of 6-8 hours of sunlight is important.
Lavender proves responsive to indoor and outdoor growth, making it an outstanding choice for various garden and living arrangements. When propagated from seeds, lavender typically matures to its full state after a year of care. In its initial year, lavender may grow to a modest bloom, offering a glimpse of its aromatic potential.
Then, by their second season, they should be in full bloom, providing an abundance of scented flowers to enjoy.
To grow lavender from seed, get a light, seed-specific potting mix, then cover each seed lightly with a thin coating of soil. Lavender germinates faster when exposed to sunshine, so don't completely cover them. Place the seedlings in a warm location or use a heating mat to keep them warm.
It is essential to note that light is imperative for the germination process. If natural sunlight is unavailable, consider using artificial plant lights. Keep the soil temperature between 60- and 65-degrees Fahrenheit for the best germination rate. Monitor the temperature with a soil thermometer.
Allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering and placing the seedlings somewhere with adequate airflow will help reduce overwatering. When the seedlings are a few inches tall and have a few sets of leaves, it's time to harden them off.
It's the process of acclimating seedlings to the outdoors to boost their chances of survival after transplantation. This means taking the seedlings outside for brief periods, first in a more covered position and then gradually pushing them into more open locations. This way, your seedlings should be ready to transplant in a few weeks.
Water your transplants once or twice a week while they are settling in. After a few weeks, your lavender's roots should be established, and you can reduce watering to once every two to three weeks. When it starts to bloom, reduce your watering to once or twice a week, as plants require more water and nutrients.
While acquiring the skill of growing lavender from seeds may pose a challenge, the rewards are so great. It demands time, patience, and diligence; however, the sight of a thriving garden with lavender will fill you with pride and satisfaction, validating your dedicated efforts. Contact Bentley Seed Co. to start growing lavender or to learn about the abundance of vegetable and flower seed packets we provide! Our seed packets are the perfect gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers, and memorials. Shop today!
