Growing and Saving the Seed Of Lavender
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.
