What To Know
- Burpee, a renowned seed company, offers a wide selection of lavender varieties, making it easy to cultivate this aromatic herb in your own backyard.
- This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to plant lavender seeds from Burpee, ensuring a thriving and fragrant garden.
- Sow seeds in a seed tray filled with a sterile seed-starting mix.
Lavender, with its captivating purple blooms and intoxicating fragrance, is a beloved addition to any garden. Burpee, a renowned seed company, offers a wide selection of lavender varieties, making it easy to cultivate this aromatic herb in your own backyard. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to plant lavender seeds from Burpee, ensuring a thriving and fragrant garden.
1. Choose the Right Seeds
Burpee offers a diverse range of lavender seeds, each with its unique characteristics. Consider the following factors when selecting your seeds:
- Plant Size: Choose varieties that suit your garden space, from compact plants for containers to sprawling shrubs.
- Bloom Time: Select varieties with bloom times that coincide with your desired flowering season.
- Hardiness Zone: Ensure that the chosen variety is suitable for your climate’s hardiness zone.
2. Prepare the Soil
Lavender prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5 and 8.0. Amend your soil with compost or sand to improve drainage and fertility. Avoid planting in heavy, waterlogged soil.
3. Start Seeds Indoors
For earlier blooms, start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Sow seeds in a seed tray filled with a sterile seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and provide plenty of light.
4. Transplant Seedlings
Once seedlings have developed 2-3 sets of true leaves, transplant them outdoors. Choose a sunny location with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for proper airflow.
5. Water and Fertilize
Water lavender regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize plants sparingly with a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year.
6. Prune Regularly
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents plants from becoming leggy. Prune after flowering by removing spent blooms and cutting back stems by one-third.
7. Overwintering
In colder climates, lavender plants may need protection during winter. Mulch around plants with straw or pine needles, and consider wrapping them in burlap for added insulation.
Tips for Success
- Choose a sunny location: Lavender thrives in full sun, so select a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Plant in well-drained soil: Avoid planting in heavy, waterlogged soil, as lavender is susceptible to root rot.
- Water regularly: Water lavender deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilize sparingly: Lavender does not require heavy fertilization. Fertilize plants once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer.
- Prune regularly: Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents plants from becoming leggy.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- Leggy Plants: Insufficient sunlight or overwatering can cause leggy growth. Ensure plants receive adequate sunlight and avoid overwatering.
- Yellowing Leaves: Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiency. Adjust your watering schedule and fertilize plants as needed.
- Pest Infestations: Lavender is generally pest-resistant, but aphids and whiteflies can sometimes be a problem. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Key Points: A Fragrant Oasis
Planting lavender seeds from Burpee is a rewarding experience that will transform your garden into a fragrant oasis. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can cultivate healthy and thriving lavender plants that will provide you with years of enjoyment. Embrace the beauty and tranquility of lavender, and let its enchanting aroma fill your space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I plant lavender seeds directly outdoors?
A: Yes, you can plant lavender seeds directly outdoors in mild climates. However, starting seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date is recommended for earlier blooms.
Q: How long does it take for lavender seeds to germinate?
A: Lavender seeds typically germinate within 14-21 days. Keep the soil moist but not soggy during germination.
Q: How often should I water lavender plants?
A: Water lavender deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
