English Lavender Seeds
When should I plant
Prepare the seeds for sowing 8-10 weeks before the last spring frost, they need to be cold stratified. Sow seeds ¼ inches deep in seed-starting formula in a south facing window or under growing lights until seedlings emerge. Keep the soil moist at 70-80℉.
Site consideration
Lavender thrives in full sun, well-draining, slightly alkaline area (pH 6.5-8). Amend heavy clay soil with gravel or sand to improve drainage.
Water
Water thoroughly at least once a week to help new roots grow down deeply. Soil should be damp at about 1 inch below the soil surface. Water early in the morning to give all leaves enough time to dry. One inch of rain or watering per week is recommended for most perennial plants. You can check to see if you need to add water by using a rain gauge.
Sunlight
Lavender needs full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily, to flourish, produce strong fragrance, and bloom well. More sun is better, but in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can prevent stress. Always pair this with excellent drainage and well-drained, slightly alkaline soil for best results.
Seed Germination
English lavender seed germination requires patience and a specific cold stratification (refrigeration) period followed by warmth and light, as the seeds need simulated winter conditions to wake up. Soak the seeds, then refrigerate them in a moist paper towel for 3-4 weeks. After stratification, plant them shallowly in warm, well-drained soil, keeping it moist but not soggy, under bright light. Germination can take 2-4 weeks.
Transplant
Before transplanting, seedling plants need to be “hardened off”. Accustom young plants to outdoor conditions by moving them to a sheltered place outside for a week. Be sure to protect them from wind and hot sun at first. If frost threatens at night, cover or bring containers indoors, then take them out again in the morning. When transplanting, space plants 12 inches apart in rows set 12 inches apart. Lavender can also grow in containers. If growing in a container, use a porous soil and don’t over-water.
Other Elements
Fertilization
Lavender plants typically grow best in soil with poor nutrients. Over-fertilizing the plant can cause an excess in leaves and limited fragrant flowers. A more natural way to fertilize lavender is by placing an inch of compost around the plant. Do not fertilize the plant in the fall, as this will encourage new growth that will then be killed by the winter months.
Weed control
Use physical barriers like woven landscape fabric or rock mulch, manual hand-weeding before weeds set seed, and proper plant spacing for good air circulation, focusing on lean, well-drained soil and avoiding organic mulches (like wood chips) that hold too much moisture or are too acidic. Consistent, preventative care is key, as lavender competes poorly with weeds for nutrients and sunlight.
Harvest
Since lavender thrives in hot weather, its flowers usually bloom mid-summer, in June or July. In warmer climates, blooming can last until the fall. If using lavender as a bouquet, harvest it before the buds have fully opened. Partially closed buds will keep their scent and color longer.
Seed Storage
The seeds will maintain a high germination percentage if stored under proper conditions. How long your seeds remain viable will depend on the temperature and moisture levels the seeds are exposed to. Seeds which are improperly stored will quickly deteriorate if unprotected against high humidity and dramatic temperature fluctuations day after day.
For best results, keep the seed in our moisture-proof ziplock sealing bags, which provide a better moisture prevention effect. Glass jar or plastic containers with snap-on lids works well too, add a packet of desiccant before sealing into the seed, such as silica gel to remove any moisture remains in the storage container. Seed stored under these conditions will remain viable for as long as years.
Factors Which commonly Cause Poor Results
1. Improper drainage soil
2. Sowing depth more than one inch
3. Covering the seed too deep beneath the soil surface
4. Cover a large area with a small amount of seed.
5. Plant at a wrong time of a year
6. Lack of sunlight
7. Inadequate rainfall after seed germination. The area should not be allowed to become completely dry. Supplemental watering may be required to sustain plant life.
8. Extreme weather conditions: hail, drought, excessive rainfall, floods, unseasonably cold temperatures.