How To Grow Lavender Seeds
Updated on Dec 29, 2021
By Shannon McCabe
Latin name Lavandula angustifolia is an herbaceous perennial member of the lamiaceae, or mint, family. The intoxicating fragrance of lavender has a naturally soothing quality. Generally hardy to USDA zone 5-9.
HISTORY
Native to the Mediterranean. Flowers have long been used as an ornamental plant, and it has also been appreciated for its fragrance and even as a culinary ingredient.
USES
- Ornamental
- Culinary uses, including as a flavoring
- Seeds germinate in 14-28 days.
- Start indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost, transplant out after all chance of frost has passed.
- Surface sow seeds and gently press into soil as light aids germination.
- A humidity dome or plastic cover will aid germination. Ideal germination temperature is 65-75 F.
- Prefers full sun.
- Well-drained soil is essential for lavender; standing in saturated soil in winter can kill plants.
- Space plants 12-18 inches apart.
- Plants average 1-3.5 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
PESTS/SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Typically a pest- and disease-free plant, plants can suffer from root rot due to poor drainage and warm, humid summer conditions.
- Provide very well drained, even gravelly, soil and do not overcrowd plants.
- Provide good air circulation.
- Allow seedheads to dry on plants and hand pick or cut stems and shake seeds free into a bucket or bag.
- Separate seeds from chaff by carefully winnowing and store in a cool, dry place.
