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Lavender is a fragrant herb in the garden. It will do well along
side of many other plants. It has a wonderful aroma. It is not hard to grow. However, you will need to give it
frequent care and attention. Here are some tips for growing lavender plants.
Propagation
These plants are usually propagated by cuttings. There is good reason for this. This will be
easier and quicker for you.
Seeds will take a long time. You will get an exact copy of the original plant with cuttings. Make
sure that you take cuttings from your best mature plants.
You may also buy potted plants and place them in the ground.
Make sure that you plant lavender in warm weather. It should be in the late spring. Early summer is also a good
time. It needs lots of sunshine too. Make sure that it will not be in a great deal of shade. There are many types
of lavender. Check with your garden centre for the right kind for your zone or area.
Soil
It is very important to have good drainage for your soil. It should be loose and dry. Compost is a good source of
soil. It may help to keep it loose. It is best to fertilize the soil first. Set your plants out approximately two
feet meters apart. Water them when you set them out. Do not water too much. Lavender thrives in dry conditions.
It is a good idea to mulch the plants after you set them out. Do not mulch around the stem of the plants. Leave an
area of 2.5 centimetres or two inches around the stem. Soil ph is very important too. It should be between 6.5 and
7.5. Lavender is sensitive to acidic or alkaline conditions. They will not do well if the soil is not properly
taken care of.
You may have problems in humid and hot conditions. Lavender is not made for this type of weather. However, there
are things that you can do. Place your plants in a raised bed. Plant them far apart. This may help with problems
like rot and fungus. Lavender is a full sun herb. However, you will need afternoon shade in hot climates.
You may grow lavender in pots. Potted soil must be the same as ground soil. It should be loose and dry. You should
re-pot your plants every season. Place them in a larger pot, to allow more growth and maturity. It is best to use
organic potting soil, also.
Harvesting
Wait till your plants have bloomed into full colour. Make sure the plants are dry when cutting. Early morning after
the dew, is a good time. Cut at the base of the stem. The cuttings can be arranged as flowers or dried for things
like potpourri. Remember that lavender will bloom for three of four seasons. Replant them every year for best
results.
Summary
Lavender is a beautiful and fragrant herb to grow in your garden. It will do well with other plants. Make sure that
you plant in loose, dry soil. Growing lavender plants may be difficult in wet conditions. Humidity and heat are not
kind to it. If you take good care of them, they will do well. Replant lavender every year. The plants will only
bloom for a few seasons.
Lemon Grass
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