Are you looking for a beautiful and fragrant addition to your outdoor space? Look no further than potted English lavender. This species of lavender is perfect for pots due to its cold hardiness and drought tolerance.
As lavender prefers well-draining soil and good air circulation, pots provide ideal growing conditions for this herb. English lavender is the most suitable species for pots as it can withstand colder temperatures than other varieties. Additionally, its natural drought resistance makes it a low-maintenance plant that is perfect for novice gardeners or those who lack the time for regular watering.
In this article, we will discuss the benefits of growing potted English lavender and provide some tips on how to care for this beautiful and versatile herb. So let’s dive in and learn how to successfully grow potted English lavender in your own outdoor space.
Key Takeaways
- English lavender is well suited for growing in pots due to its cold hardiness and drought tolerance.
- Good drainage is important for potted lavender, and gravel or crocs should be laid over the drainage holes.
- English lavender should be pruned at least once a year to prevent woody growth and stimulate flower growth.
- Potted English lavender is both cold hardy and drought resistant, but should be watered more frequently when newly planted.
Growing Conditions
We know that English lavender is well-suited for growing in pots due to its cold hardiness and drought tolerance. However, to recreate its preferred growing conditions, we need to provide good drainage and better air flow.
To achieve this, we need to choose the right pot size and ensure that there are enough drainage holes. A pot that’s too small can restrict root growth and ultimately harm the plant. On the other hand, a pot that’s too large can lead to waterlogging and root rot.
Optimal sunlight exposure is also crucial for potted English lavender. It’s essential to place the pot in a location that receives full sunlight for at least six hours a day. Lavenders won’t grow well in the shade. The perfect location for a potted lavender plant is a south-facing window or a sunny balcony.
By providing optimal growing conditions, we can ensure that our potted English lavender thrives and produces beautiful blooms.
Watering and Soil
When it comes to keeping potted English lavender healthy, it’s important to remember that good drainage and a well-draining soil are key. Lavender roots do not like to be in rich compost that holds too much water, so it is always best practice to amend the compost with sand or gravel before planting. Additionally, good drainage is especially important, so it is always a good idea to lay 1 inch of gravel or crocs over the drainage holes. This will prevent the roots from sitting in water and becoming waterlogged, which can lead to root rot and ultimately kill the plant.
Table: Optimal frequency of watering for potted English lavender
| Age of plant | Time of year | Optimal frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Newly planted | Spring/Summer | Every 3 days for first 10 days |
| Established | Spring/Summer | Once every 2 weeks |
| Established | Fall/Winter | Leave outside to attain sufficient moisture from weather |
Optimal frequency of watering for potted English lavender will depend on the age of the plant and the time of year. Newly planted lavender needs to be watered every 3 days for the first 10 days after planting to help establish its roots. Established English lavender needs to be watered once every two weeks during the spring and summer months. Over the fall and winter, potted lavender is in a state of dormancy and will attain sufficient moisture from the weather if left outside. When watering, it is important to use a soak and dry method, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering and ensure the roots have access to oxygen.
Pruning Techniques
To maintain the health and appearance of our lavender plant, pruning techniques are essential. Pruning helps to prevent our English lavender from becoming leggy, stimulate flower growth, and maintain a nice compact shape. It also helps resist woody growth from the base and increase the life span of our plant.
We should aim to prune our lavender at least once, if not twice, a year. When pruning, we should only cut into newer, flexible growth. Using sharp, sterile pruners or shears, we should make clean cuts at an angle just above a set of leaves.
The first prune should be done in early spring when green leaves emerge, and the second prune should be lighter, to tidy flower stems. Pruning helps our plant maintain a rounded appearance that can help deflect snow and prevent ice. Additionally, we can use the lavender cuttings for homemade potpourri, making pruning a great way to both maintain our plant’s health and create something beautiful.
In conclusion, pruning is an essential technique to maintain the health and appearance of our potted English lavender. By using proper pruning techniques and timing, we can stimulate flower growth, resist woody growth, and increase the life span of our plant. Moreover, we can create something beautiful by using the cuttings for homemade potpourri.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can English lavender be grown indoors in pots?
Yes, English lavender can be grown indoors in pots. Indoor growing tips include providing full sun, good drainage, and low to medium fertility soil. Container options include terra cotta or plastic. Prune regularly to maintain shape and prevent woody growth.
Are there any pests or diseases that commonly affect potted English lavender?
Common pests that affect English lavender in pots include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Prevention tips include good drainage, avoiding overwatering, and using insecticidal soap. Treatment options include neem oil and pruning affected areas. Proper soil types, watering techniques, and pruning methods can also help prevent pest infestations.
How long do potted English lavender plants typically live?
The average lifespan of English lavender in pots is around 5-8 years, but can vary depending on pruning techniques. Regular pruning can prevent woody growth and increase the plant’s lifespan.
Can potted English lavender be used for culinary purposes?
Yes, potted English lavender can be used for culinary purposes. Harvesting techniques involve cutting stems just before flowering and hanging them upside down in a dry, dark place. The leaves and flowers can be used for cooking, baking, and making tea.
Is it necessary to fertilize potted English lavender, and if so, how often?
Organic fertilizers are preferred for potted English lavender to maintain the plant’s natural properties. Fertilizing frequency should be limited to once every two months during the growing season. Synthetic fertilizers can harm the plant and affect its aroma and flavor.
