How to Cultivate and Care for English Lavender: A Comprehensive Guide
Botanical Overview
English lavender, scientifically known as Lavandula angustifolia, is an aromatic and visually appealing perennial. Belonging to the Lamiaceae family, it is characterized by its semi-woody growth habit and fragrant leaves and flowers. Commonly cultivated for its captivating scent and medicinal properties, English lavender is a popular choice for gardens and home décor.
Cultivation Requirements
Sunlight: English lavender thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. While it can tolerate partial shade, optimal growth and flowering occur in sunnier conditions.
Soil: The ideal soil for English lavender is well-draining, slightly sandy or gritty, and leans towards the drier side. Avoid overly moist or humusy soils, as they can promote root rot.
Water: Water young plants regularly, especially during the first week after planting. Established lavender plants are drought-tolerant and prefer infrequent watering. Water only when the soil feels dry to the touch, approximately once a week during the growing season and less frequently during cooler months.
Temperature and Humidity: English lavender prefers warm, dry conditions. It is not well-suited to humid climates and can be damaged by temperatures below zero degrees Fahrenheit without protective cover.
Fertilizer: Fertilizing English lavender is generally not necessary and may even hinder flowering. Avoid using fertilizers that are high in nitrogen, as they can encourage leaf growth at the expense of blooms.
Types of English Lavender
Various cultivars of English lavender offer a range of sizes, flower colors, and growth habits. Some popular varieties include:
- L. angustifolia ‘Hidcote’: Compact variety with dark purple blooms
- Lavandula x intermedia ‘Hidcote Giant’: Larger cultivar with bright violet flower spikes
- L. angustifolia ‘Munstead’: Mounding variety with rosy-purple blooms
- L. angustifolia ‘Sarah’: Dwarf cultivar with medium purple flowers, suitable for containers
- L. angustifolia ‘Jean Davis’: Slow-growing variety with light pink blooms
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning:
- Remove faded flower stalks to encourage continued blooming.
- Prune lightly in spring after new growth appears, removing about one-third of the green stalks.
- In late summer or early fall, prune again to improve air circulation and prevent rot.
- Every three years or so, shear plants to eight inches from the ground in early spring to control size and promote new growth.
Propagation:
English lavender is easily propagated through stem cuttings. To propagate:
- Take six-inch-long cuttings from non-flowering shoots.
- Remove the lower leaves.
- Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone.
- Plant cuttings in well-draining potting soil or sand.
- Keep cuttings in partial shade and water regularly until rooted.
Common Diseases and Pests
English lavender is relatively disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to:
- Leaf spot: Remove affected leaves and improve air circulation.
- Root rot: Avoid overwatering and ensure well-draining soil.
Overwintering
In colder climates, English lavender may require protection during winter. Mulch plants with organic materials such as straw or bark to insulate the roots. In areas with heavy snowfall, protective covers may be necessary.
Harvesting and Uses
- Harvest lavender flowers just as they open.
- Hang bunches upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated room to dry.
- Dried lavender flowers can be used in sachets, potpourri, and aromatherapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is English lavender easy to care for?
A: Yes, English lavender is relatively low-maintenance if provided with the proper growing conditions. It prefers dry, well-draining soil, full sun, and infrequent watering.
Q: How fast does English lavender grow?
A: English lavender has a moderately slow growth rate. Pruning new growth in the spring helps maintain a rounded shape, while avoiding pruning woody stems promotes longevity.
Q: What is the difference between English and French lavender?
A: French lavender (Lavandula stoechas) prefers warmer climates and is less cold-hardy than English lavender. It is also more sensitive and less durable.
Q: Can English lavender be grown indoors?
A: Yes, English lavender can be grown indoors in pots. Provide bright, direct sunlight for at least four to six hours per day and maintain low humidity levels.
