Growing Lavender (Lavandula): Complete Guide to Fragrant Subshrubs

About Lavender

Aromatic subshrubs for herb gardens and borders. Intensely perfumed blue-violet, mauve, pink, or white flowers prized for drying and potpourri. Silvery/gray-green foliage contrasts beautifully. Thrives in arid West; best as annuals/containers in humid South (except L. dentata and L. stoechas). Hardiness Zones 5–9; Spanish Lavender Zones 7–9.

Light & Water

Full sun; afternoon shade in hottest climates. Drought-resistant once established but flowers better with consistent moisture.

Soil, pH & Fertilizer

Lean soil preferred; no supplemental feeding needed. Occasional compost side-dressing okay. Perfect drainage is essential—plants die in wet winter soil. pH near or slightly above neutral; add lime if below 7.0. Gravel mulch keeps crowns dry.

Pests & Diseases

Essential oils deter deer and insects. In humid climates, fungal issues possible; prevent with excellent drainage and air circulation.

Companions

Roses, hardy geraniums, catmints, Shasta daisies. Silvery varieties suit knot gardens; sheared, they make low hedges.

Pruning

Woody subshrub—prune after new growth appears in spring; leave alone in winter. Shear back after flowering but don't cut into old wood. If unsightly, cut back by ⅓ every three years.

Harvesting & Use

Cut spikes as flowers begin to open for strongest scent. Dry in bunches out of sun (4–5 days). Use fresh/dried stems in arrangements or strip flowers for sachets/potpourri.

Reflowering

Shear off old spikes after first bloom for possible second flush.

Dividing/Transplanting

Young plants divide better. Move in early spring with plenty of root soil.

Calendar of Care

Early Spring

Wait for new growth before pruning. Remove deadwood, shape, divide/transplant. Side-dress with compost (away from crowns). Check/adjust pH to 6.5–7.5.

Mid-Spring

Mulch with gravel as soil warms.

Late Spring

Shear after flowering. Supplement water if very dry.

Summer

Watch for fungal issues in humidity; treat as needed.

Fall

Do not cut back before winter. In severe climates, cover lightly with evergreen boughs against drying winds.