Lavender is a plant much appreciated for its numerous virtues and its bewitching scent.
Do you dream of growing this wonder at home, but don’t have a garden? No problem: in this article you will learn how to grow lavender in pots at home. Follow the guide!
Choose the right variety of lavender and the right material
To grow lavender in pots successfully, it is essential to choose the right variety and have the right equipment.
In fact, some varieties of lavender are more suitable than others for growing in pots and indoors.
READ: Discover these 15 incredible plants that survive almost without water!
Lavandula angustifolia, for example, is an excellent choice for growing in pots; it is particularly hardy and has a more delicate scent than other varieties, making it ideal for indoor use. Other varieties to consider are butterfly lavender Lavandula stoechas) and tooth lavender Lavandula dentata).
As for the materials, you need a pot with drainage holes, a light and well-draining support, a tutor to support the plant and possibly additional lighting; tutor to support the plant and possibly additional lighting if you do not have a sufficiently lit place.
Preparation of the pot and substrate
grow lavender in pots
Good drainage is essential for lavender health, as this plant does not tolerate excess water.
To ensure good drainage, you should choose a pot with drainage holes and use a light, well-drained substrate.
First, place a layer of gravel or clay pebbles at the bottom of the pot to facilitate water drainage, then prepare the substrate by mixing:
- 50% universal earth
- 25% coarse sand
- 25% compost or well-rotted dry manure
This light, well-drained mix will allow the lavender to grow properly without the risk of root rot.
Planting and positioning of lavender.
Once the pot and soil are ready, it’s time to plant the lavender.
To do this, follow the steps below:
- Fill the pot with the prepared substrate, leaving about 2 cm free between the substrate and the edge of the pot.
- Carefully remove the lavender from its original pot and untangle the roots if they are tangled.
- Place the lavender in the center of the pot and add soil around the roots, compacting slightly.
- Water abundantly to moisten the substrate well and check that the water flows correctly through the drainage holes.
Then place the vase in a sunny area, possibly near a window facing south or west. Lavender needs at least 6 hours of direct light a day to grow well. If you do not have a sufficiently lit place, you can use auxiliary lighting, such as a horticultural lamp or an LED lamp.
Also remember that lavender appreciates a cool environment, with temperatures between 15 and 22°C. Avoid placing the vase near a radiator or heat source.
Lavender maintenance: watering, pruning and fertilizing
In order for potted lavender to grow well at home, it is important to give it the necessary care in terms of watering, pruning and fertilizing.
Water: Lavender is a drought-tolerant plant, so it’s best not to overwater it. Water moderately, allowing the substrate to dry slightly between waterings. In winter, reduce watering further, as the plant enters a period of dormancy.
Fertilization: Lavender doesn’t need much fertilizing, but adding an organic fertilizer in the spring and summer can be helpful. Choose a fertilizer that is high in potassium and low in nitrogen, such as a wood ash or potassium fertilizer.
Pest and disease control
Lavender is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but some precautions can be taken to prevent their onset.
By following these tips, you should be able to successfully grow lavender in pots inside your home. Take advantage of its bewitching scent and relaxing virtues all year round!