Growing Lavender Successfully: Drainage, pH, and Minimal Care

The secret to long-lived lavender isn't winter protection—it's perfect drainage and alkaline soil. A raised bed with sandy, amended soil and pH 6.5-7.0 allows plants to thrive for years.

Proven Practices

• Raised beds with rapid percolation
• Soil amended with sand and organic matter
• Lime added per soil test to achieve pH 6.5-7.0
• Light spring mulch with soil conditioner
• Minimal fertilizer—lavender prefers lean conditions

Winter Care

Leave plants alone. Prune lightly for shape in spring if needed. Your December-blooming plants are already adapted to your site—don't disrupt their success with unnecessary intervention.