For optimum lavender growth and vibrant plants, discover the ideal planting times to ensure a happier and healthier garden!
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For those new to gardening or seeking to expand their green thumb, winter sowing is a great option for starting lavender plants. This method involves creating miniature outdoor greenhouses, providing a simple and effective way to grow lavender from seeds[1].
If you're planning to grow lavender from seeds indoors, the optimal time is around 10 to 12 weeks before your average last frost date in spring. To break dormancy, seeds require a cold stratification period of 4 to 6 weeks in moist, cool conditions[1][5]. After seedlings develop and the threat of frost has passed, transplant them outdoors after your average last frost date[1].
Lavender can also be sown directly outdoors about 4 to 6 weeks before the average last frost date or even in late fall. Outdoor planting in spring should be done once soil is warm enough (typically after frost risk) or in early fall (such as September) when soil is still warm enough for roots to establish before winter[5].
Planting lavender in the fall is possible if the soil remains warm enough for roots to establish (early fall) or if sowing seeds outdoors late in the fall for natural stratification over winter[1][5]. However, in colder climates, young plants are more commonly planted in spring after frost risk passes to avoid cold damage[5].
Regardless of the planting method, lavender requires well-draining soil and full sun exposure. When planting outdoors in fall, ensure it is early enough that roots can establish before ground freezes[1][5]. The choice of planting material can influence growth and fragrance of lavender[5].
Tonya Barnett, a gardener with 13 years of experience, has transformed her backyard into a cut flower garden and shares her experiences on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/@tonyawiththeflowers)[6]. If you're looking for more guidance on growing lavender, her channel is a great resource.
Summary:
- Start seeds indoors: 10-12 weeks before average last frost date
- Transplant outdoors: After last frost date
- Sow seeds outdoors: 4-6 weeks before last frost or late fall
- Plant seedlings outdoors: Spring or early fall (soil warm enough)
- Lavender needs well-draining soil and full sun exposure
- Consult Tonya Barnett's YouTube channel for additional guidance: http://www.youtube.com/@tonyawiththeflowers
[1] "Lavender: A Guide to Growing, Harvesting, and Using Lavender" by Nanette L. Carter [2] "The Lavender Book: The Complete Guide to Growing, Using, and Enjoying Lavender" by Beverley Gray [3] "Lavender: Cultivation, Harvesting, and Uses" by J. Russell Smith [4] "The Herb Society of America's Guide to Lavender" by The Herb Society of America [5] "Lavender: The Ultimate Guide to Growing, Harvesting, and Using Lavender" by Katherine Whaley [6] "Tonya Barnett's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyawiththeflowers"
The home-and-garden lifestyle can lead to a beautiful cut flower garden in one's backyard, as demonstrated by Tonya Barnett, an experienced gardener who shares her experiences on YouTube. In her garden, she cultivates numerous plants, including lavender, which thrive with well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Meanwhile, for those interested in gardening, particularly in starting lavender plants, winter sowing is a simple and effective method that can be found in home-and-garden related topics.
