Lavender can take as long as a month to germinate. It might bloom the first year but it takes three years to mature.
Growing lavender in grow bags can be a convenient and effective way to cultivate this fragrant herb. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Choose the Right Variety:
Lavender comes in different varieties, and some are better suited for container gardening. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and French lavender (Lavandula dentata) are popular choices.
2. Select the Right Grow Bags:
Choose grow bags that are large enough to accommodate the root system of your chosen lavender variety. The bags should have good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Fabric grow bags are a good choice as they allow air circulation and prevent overwatering.
3. Soil Mix:
Use a well-draining soil mix. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and sand is a good option. Lavender prefers slightly alkaline soil, so you may add a bit of lime to the mix if your soil tends to be acidic.
4. Planting:
Plant lavender in the grow bag, ensuring that the crown (where the stems meet the roots) is at or slightly above the soil level. Space multiple lavender plants at least 12 to 18 inches apart.
5. Sunlight:
Lavender loves full sunlight. Place your grow bags in a location where they receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
6. Watering:
Lavender prefers dry conditions, so be careful not to overwater. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. When you do water, water deeply to encourage deep root growth.
7. Fertilizing:
Lavender doesn't require a lot of fertilization. You can use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring, but avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
8. Pruning:
Prune your lavender regularly to promote bushiness and prevent it from becoming leggy. After the first bloom, trim the plants to shape and remove spent flowers.
9. Winter Care:
If you experience harsh winters, you may need to protect your lavender. Consider moving the grow bags to a sheltered location or covering the plants with a layer of straw.
10. Harvesting:
Harvest lavender flowers when they are in full bloom. Cut the stems just above the leaves, and you can then dry the flowers for various uses.
11. Pests and Diseases:
Keep an eye out for pests like aphids and spider mites. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can be used for control. Lavender is generally resistant to most diseases, especially if it's grown in well-draining soil.
Companion Plants:
Companion planting is a gardening practice where different plants are grown near each other to provide mutual benefits. When considering companion plants for lavender, it's helpful to choose ones that have similar soil and sunlight requirements, and that can provide some pest control or other benefits. Here are some companion plants that pair well with lavender:
Rosemary: Both rosemary and lavender thrive in well-drained soil and full sunlight. They also complement each other well in terms of fragrance.
Thyme: Thyme is another herb that enjoys similar growing conditions as lavender. It can help deter certain pests and adds to the aromatic quality of the garden.
Sage: Sage is a hardy herb that can grow well alongside lavender. Like lavender, it prefers good drainage and sunlight.
Oregano: Oregano is a low-maintenance herb that pairs well with lavender. It can attract beneficial insects and provide ground cover.
Marigold: Marigolds can help deter nematodes, and their bright flowers add color to the garden. They generally prefer full sun, making them compatible with lavender.
Catmint: Catmint, a relative of catnip, is visually similar to lavender and attracts pollinators. It's easy to grow and can be a good companion plant.
Lemon Balm: Lemon balm is a fragrant herb that can deter pests like mosquitoes. It's relatively low-maintenance and grows well in similar conditions to lavender.
Chamomile: Chamomile can attract beneficial insects and is often used as a companion plant to improve the overall health of the garden.
Lavender Varieties: Different varieties of lavender can be planted together as they have similar growth habits. They can create a visually appealing and aromatic garden.
Alliums: Members of the Allium family can help repel pests like aphids. They also have relatively shallow root systems that won't compete too much with lavender.
Lavender does not grow well with mint, hosta, impatiens, or camellias.
How do I fertilize my Lavender?
The easiest and best thing to do is to put down an inch of good compost around the plant. This should provide plenty of nutrients for the year to come. You can also feed your lavender with a small amount of slow-release fertilizer.
What bugs attack Lavender and what gets rid of them?
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White flies will suck out the plant juice with their sharp mouthparts and this will make them shrivel or dry. The cilantro leaves also will turn yellow or appear stunted. This is from the larvae. Adult whiteflies cause indirect damage by leaving their eggs and larvae behind.
Whiteflies look like tiny white aphids with pointed wings and a brown or dark head. They’re easy to see with the naked eye.
Prune and clean any damaged foliage. Remove them entirely because it’s likely infected with plant bacteria and eggs.
Next, you’ll need to clean. Soapy water can sterilize whitefly populations. Spray your cilantro down with a mixture of soap and water. It should kill them upon contact.
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Even though aphids are considered minor pests of celery, they can be virus vectors. The soft-bodied adults put their needle-like mouths into plant tissue and suck the plant’s juices. While they are taking nutrients from the plant, these pests also insert toxins that affect the plant’s growth.
Aphids can be controlled with an insecticidal soap. Always spray plants in the early evening to reduce the chance of damage. Pay special attention to the lower leaf because that is where they usually are located.
What soil pH is best for Lavender?
Lavender is native to the hot, dry climate of the Mediterranean and grows in rocky alkaline soils. A sandy loam, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5 to 8 is ideal. If the pH is too low, add lime when planting to boost the alkalinity.
How do you store Lavender?
Lavender should be stored in a dark place, away from the direct sunlight and away from the sources of any heath or humidity. It means the kitchen or living room are not good places to store it. The sunlight will fade its colors and possible humidity will make it go stale. So, keep it in a cool, dry, and dark location.
Interesting facts:
The ancient Egyptians made use of lavender during their mummifications process, embalming the corpse with perfume.
The ancient Greeks used lavender to treat insomnia and ease back pain.
During the bubonic plague in the 17th century, lavender was used as a remedy to ward off potential disease.
The first to successfully grow and harvest lavender successfully were the Shakers. They developed lavender farms and produced their own herbs to sell to markets around the globe.
Lavender is a great bug repellent!
Lavender is a part of the mint family.
Medicinal uses for Lavender:
Lavender has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties for centuries. While it's important to note that the following information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, here are some traditional and potential medicinal uses for lavender:
Relaxation and Stress Relief:
Lavender is well-known for its calming and relaxing properties. It is often used in aromatherapy to help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation. You can use lavender essential oil in a diffuser or add a few drops to your bath.
Sleep Aid:
Due to its calming effects, lavender is often used to improve sleep quality. Place a sachet of dried lavender flowers under your pillow or use a lavender-infused sleep spray.
Pain Relief:
Lavender may have mild analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Applying diluted lavender essential oil topically to sore muscles or joints may provide relief.
Skin Conditions:
Lavender has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that make it useful for soothing minor skin irritations, insect bites, and burns. You can apply diluted lavender oil or use lavender-infused creams and balms.
Headache Relief:
Inhaling the aroma of lavender or applying diluted lavender oil to the temples may help alleviate headaches and migraines.
Respiratory Health:
Lavender's aromatic properties may have a soothing effect on the respiratory system. Inhaling steam infused with lavender oil may help with congestion and respiratory issues.
Anti-Anxiety and Mood Enhancement:
Lavender is believed to have mood-enhancing properties. Aromatherapy with lavender oil may help reduce symptoms of mild anxiety and improve overall mood.
Antimicrobial Properties:
Lavender has natural antimicrobial properties that may help fight against certain bacteria and fungi. It can be used topically on minor wounds or cuts.
Menstrual Pain Relief:
Some people find relief from menstrual cramps by using lavender aromatherapy or applying diluted lavender oil to the lower abdomen.
Insect Repellent:
The scent of lavender is known to repel mosquitoes and other insects. Use lavender oil or place dried lavender sachets in areas where you want to discourage insects.
Hair Care:
Lavender oil is sometimes used in hair care products for its purported ability to promote hair health and reduce dandruff.
It's crucial to use lavender products with caution and consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have pre-existing medical conditions. While lavender is generally considered safe for most people, individual reactions can vary. Always perform a patch test before applying lavender oil to your skin and dilute it properly to avoid skin irritation.