Lavender Seeds,
Vera

Wait until after the last frost when soil temperatures are above 60 F to plant lavender. Start seeds indoors 8-10 prior to allow the roots to establish. From their second year, established plants will bloom in late spring to summer and continue flowering throughout the growing season. Check your local area’s frost dates to plan planting. If you’re not sure how to do that, give our blog post ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources’ a read.

Sow seeds on the surface of the soil and lightly press them down—do not cover them, as they need light to germinate. Germination can take 14-21 days at temperatures between 65-75 F. To improve germination, stratify seeds by refrigerating them for 30-40 days before planting. Once seedlings develop several sets of true leaves, transplant them outdoors about 12 inches apart.

Lavender is highly drought tolerant once established and should be watered sparingly—only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot. Avoid fertilizing lavender heavily. Too much nitrogen will cause excessive leaf growth and fewer blooms. A light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer once a year is sufficient. Prune lavender in early spring to remove dead stems and shape the plant. After flowering, cut back spent flower stems to encourage continuous blooms. In colder climates, mulch around the base of the plant in fall to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.

• Allow the 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.