Lavender, with its vibrant purple flowers and soothing fragrance, is a popular plant for gardens and homes. Growing lavender in pots is an excellent way to enjoy this beautiful plant, especially if you have limited outdoor space or live in a cooler climate. This guide will provide comprehensive information on how to successfully grow and care for lavender in pots.
Choosing the Right Lavender Variety
There are numerous varieties of lavender, each with its unique characteristics. Some varieties are better suited for pot cultivation than others. When selecting a lavender variety for your pot, consider factors such as the plant’s mature size, growth habit, and cold hardiness.
English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is a popular choice for pot cultivation due to its compact size and hardiness. French lavender (Lavandula stoechas) is also suitable for pots, with its distinctive butterfly-like flowers and tolerance for warmer climates.
English Lavender
English lavender is a compact variety that typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet. It is known for its strong lavender scent and is often used in essential oils and culinary applications. English lavender is also cold hardy, making it a good choice for those living in cooler climates.
There are several cultivars of English lavender to choose from, each with its unique flower color and growth habit. ‘Hidcote’ is a popular cultivar with dark purple flowers, while ‘Munstead’ has lighter blue-purple flowers and is particularly cold hardy.
French Lavender
French lavender is a larger variety that can grow up to 3 to 4 feet tall. It has distinctive purple flowers that resemble butterflies, adding a unique aesthetic to your pot. French lavender prefers warmer climates and is less cold hardy than English lavender.
French lavender is also known for its strong scent, which is more camphor-like compared to the sweet scent of English lavender. It is often used in potpourri and as a moth repellent.
Selecting the Right Pot
Choosing the right pot is crucial for the successful cultivation of lavender. Lavender prefers well-drained soil, so a pot with adequate drainage holes is essential. The size of the pot should also be considered, as it needs to accommodate the mature size of the lavender plant.
Clay or terracotta pots are ideal for growing lavender, as they allow the soil to dry out between waterings, preventing root rot. However, these pots can be heavy and may crack in cold weather. Plastic pots are lighter and more durable, but they retain moisture longer, which can lead to overwatering if not monitored carefully.
Pot Size
The size of the pot should be proportional to the size of the lavender plant. A pot that is too small will restrict the growth of the plant and may lead to root-bound conditions. On the other hand, a pot that is too large may hold too much water, leading to root rot.
As a general rule, choose a pot that is at least 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter than the root ball of the lavender plant. This will provide enough room for the roots to grow and spread.
Drainage
Good drainage is essential for the health of a lavender plant. Lavender prefers dry conditions and does not tolerate waterlogged soil. Therefore, the pot you choose should have several drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to escape.
Adding a layer of gravel or small stones at the bottom of the pot can also improve drainage. However, avoid using saucers under the pot, as they can hold water and create soggy conditions.
Planting and Caring for Lavender in Pots
Once you have chosen the right lavender variety and pot, it’s time to plant your lavender. Lavender prefers full sun and well-drained soil, so place your pot in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day and use a well-draining soil mix.
Water your lavender sparingly, as it prefers dry conditions. Overwatering is a common mistake when growing lavender in pots. Wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again. During the winter months, reduce watering as the plant’s water requirements will be lower.
Soil and Fertilizer
Lavender prefers slightly alkaline, well-drained soil. A soil mix designed for cacti and succulents can be a good choice, as it drains well and has a slightly alkaline pH. You can also make your own soil mix by combining equal parts of garden soil, coarse sand, and peat moss.
Lavender does not require a lot of fertilizer. A slow-release granular fertilizer applied in the spring should be sufficient for the growing season. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote leafy growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and Winter Care
Pruning is important for maintaining the shape and health of your lavender plant. Prune your lavender in early spring, removing about one-third of the plant. This will encourage bushy growth and more flowers. Avoid cutting into the woody part of the plant, as new growth comes from the green stems.
In colder climates, lavender in pots will need some protection during the winter. Move your pot to a sheltered location, such as a garage or shed, where it will be protected from harsh winter winds and freezing temperatures. Alternatively, you can wrap the pot in bubble wrap or burlap to insulate it.
Harvesting and Using Lavender
Lavender is not only a beautiful plant to grow, but it also has many uses. The flowers can be harvested for use in cooking, crafting, and home remedies. Harvest the flowers just before they fully open for the strongest fragrance.
In the kitchen, lavender flowers can be used to flavor baked goods, jams, and beverages. In crafting, dried lavender flowers can be used to make potpourri, sachets, and wreaths. Lavender oil, extracted from the flowers, is used in aromatherapy for its calming and soothing properties.
Culinary Uses
Lavender is a versatile herb in the kitchen. The flowers have a sweet, floral flavor with a hint of citrus, and can be used to flavor a variety of dishes. Use lavender sparingly in cooking, as the flavor can be overpowering.
Lavender is often used in baking, adding a unique flavor to cookies, cakes, and breads. It can also be used in savory dishes, such as roasted meats and vegetables. Lavender honey, made by infusing honey with lavender flowers, is a delicious addition to tea or toast.
Crafting and Home Remedies
Dried lavender flowers are a popular choice for crafting. They can be used to make fragrant sachets, wreaths, and potpourri. Lavender oil, extracted from the flowers, is used in homemade soaps, lotions, and candles.
Lavender is also known for its calming and soothing properties. It is often used in home remedies for insomnia, anxiety, and headaches. A simple lavender tea, made by steeping dried lavender flowers in hot water, can help to soothe nerves and promote sleep.
With the right care and attention, growing lavender in pots can be a rewarding experience. Not only will you have a beautiful and fragrant plant to enjoy, but you will also have a versatile herb to use in your kitchen, crafting, and home remedies.