Caring for Lavender

Lavender is a low-maintenance plant once established, but it does have specific needs. Water sparingly: established plants tolerate drought well and actually prefer dry conditions. In a typical British summer, rainfall is usually sufficient; only water during prolonged dry spells in the first year. Overwatering or poorly drained soil causes root rot and yellowing foliage, so err on the side of dryness. Lavender's evergreen foliage means it continues to transpire gently through winter, but avoid watering in cold, wet months. Feeding is not necessary and often counterproductive. Lavender evolved on nutrient-poor Mediterranean hillsides, and rich soil produces lush, floppy growth with weak stems and fewer flowers. If your soil is very poor or plants look pale, a light sprinkle of general-purpose fertiliser in early spring is the absolute maximum; otherwise, leave well alone. Lavender is hardy to zone 5a and overwinters reliably in temperate Europe without protection, provided drainage is good. Wet winter soil is far more lethal than cold. In heavy or clay soils, consider planting on a slight mound or raised bed to keep the crown dry. Mulch with gravel rather than organic matter to reflect light, suppress weeds and improve drainage around the neck of the plant. Common problems include rosemary beetle (metallic green-and-purple striped adults and grey larvae that chew foliage) and fungal diseases such as Phytophthora root rot in wet conditions. Pick off beetles by hand or use an organic insecticide if infestations are severe. Good drainage and adequate spacing remain your best defences against disease. Harvest flowers in June, July or August when buds are just opening for the strongest fragrance.