Propagating Lavender: Division & Cuttings

A gardener asked if lavender can be propagated from a mature plant and where to cut.

Method 1: Division (Easiest, Most Reliable)

• When: Early spring or fall.
• How: Dig the entire plant. Saw or cut the root ball into halves, quarters, or eighths (each with roots and shoots).
• Replant: Immediately at same depth. Water well. Trim tops by 1/3 to reduce transpiration.

Method 2: Semi-Ripe Stem Cuttings (Summer)

1. Timing: Early–mid summer (stems flexible but snap when bent).
2. Cut: 2–4" tips, just below a leaf node.
3. Prep: Strip lower 1/2 leaves. Dip cut end in rooting hormone (powder or gel).
4. Medium: Damp soilless mix (perlite/vermiculite/peat) or 50/50 sand–peat.
5. Environment: High humidity (clear bag or dome), bright indirect light, 65–75°F.
6. Roots: 4–8 weeks. Tug gently—resistance means roots.
7. Pot up: Individual 4" pots. Harden off. Plant out in fall or spring.

Key Lavender Needs for Success

• Drainage: Gritty, alkaline soil. No wet feet.
• Sun: 6+ hours direct.
• Air flow: Space plants to prevent fungal issues.
• No rich soil: Lean conditions concentrate oils.

Division gives instant plants; cuttings multiply varieties. Both work well.