Overall, growing lavender from seed can be a challenging endeavor. It is not impossible, but success is far from guaranteed. The difficulty is due in part to the nature of the type of seed that is used; lavender seeds are very small, making them difficult to handle and take root.
The seeds also have a low germination rate, so it takes some patience to wait for them to grow and thrive.
Aside from the difficulty of the seed itself, lavender is also picky when it comes to soil and climate needs. The soil needs to be loose and well-draining with a pH of 7.5, and the climate needs to be warm and dry in order to maximize a plant’s chance of success.
In addition, too much water can lead to root rot, so careful watering is a must.
For these reasons, growing lavender from seed is considered a bit more difficult than growing it from a rooted cutting, which can often be purchased from a nursery or online. With the right care and attention, however, it is still possible to have success with germinating lavender from seed.
It’s simply a matter of patience and dedication.
What is the fastest way to germinate lavender seeds?
The fastest way to germinate lavender seeds is to use the widely accepted protocol of stratification. Stratification involves the process of subjecting the seeds to alternating cycles of cold and damp conditions.
The first step is to lightly moisten the lavender seeds and spread them on the surface of a moistened growing medium such as vermiculite, coarse sand, or peat moss. This provides adequate moisture for the seeds to germinate, while allowing sufficient aeration.
Next, place the growing medium with the seeds into a plastic bag and store them in a refrigerator set to between 39 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 to 60 days. This gives the seedcoat the ability to ‘waken’ the seeds.
After the 30 to 60 day timeframe has elapsed,or when the desired sprouting has occurred, remove the seeds from the refrigerator and lay them on the surface of a well-draining growing medium. Place the tray on a well lit windowsill or under flourescent lights and water as necessary to keep the potting mixture lightly moist.
The lavender seeds should begin to germinate within 1 to 2 weeks.
Keep in mind that not all lavender seeds have the same germination time, some may take longer. Seeds with higher moisture content will germinate faster than those with lower moisture content. Be sure to remove any weeds or other rapidly growing competing plants to allow proper airflow and to prevent overcrowding the lavender seedlings.
Once the desired germination percentage has been achieved, thin out the extra seedlings to promote robust root growth and healthy lavender plants.
Why are my lavender seeds not germinating?
There might be a few different reasons why your lavender seeds are not germinating. Firstly, improper soil temperature can be a factor. Lavender is a Mediterranean plant and generally needs soil temperatures of at least 80°F for germination.
Secondly, lavender seeds have a hard outer shell that can be difficult for moisture to penetrate. If you have soaked them, try lightly scarifying the seeds with fine sandpaper or putting them in a bowl of warm water to soften the seed coat.
Thirdly, lavender seeds can have a low germination rate so you may need to give them more time. Finally, make sure that you are planting the seeds in well-draining soil and make sure the soil is always kept lightly moist while they are germinating.
Can I just scatter lavender seeds?
Yes, it is possible to scatter lavender seeds in your garden or around the perimeter of the area you wish to fill with the fragrant herb. That will help ensure a successful planting.
When scattering lavender seeds, it is important to choose a good location. Lavender should be grown in a sunny, well-drained spot where it will receive plenty of light and air circulation. Be sure to remove any weeds and grass from the area you wish to plant, as lavender does not compete well with other plants.
Loosen the soil with a tiller for a better seed-to-soil contact, and an easier seed scattering process. When scattering the seed, spread the seed out over the entire area and lightly rake over the top.
Water the seeds thoroughly. Once the seeds have been scattered and watered, they should be lightly covered with a thin layer of soil, compost, or fine mulch.
Once the lavender has germinated and begins to grow, remember to water frequently, as lavender needs plenty of water to thrive. You should also provide some protection from extreme temperature fluctuations, as these can cause harm to young lavender plants.
In conclusion, it is possible to scatter lavender seeds in order to propagate the herb. When doing so, it is important to remember to choose an appropriate location, loosen the soil, scatter the seed, water thoroughly, and provide a thin layer of protection over the seed.
What month should I plant lavender?
The optimal time to plant lavender is during the early to mid summer months. Lavender is a border garden plant and grows best in warmer weather when there is abundant sunlight and the soil is already beginning to warm.
Planting in the months of June, July, and August will give lavender a chance to become established in the garden before winter and enable it to return each season with more robust growth.
It is generally recommended to avoid planting lavender in extreme heat and trying to plant it in the cooler months of fall or even spring might be too cold for the plant to survive. Additionally, in order to keep lavender healthy and blooming, it is essential to provide it with the best soil and intense sunlight, making summer the ideal season for planting.
Does lavender bloom the first year?
Yes, lavender is a hardy plant that can begin to bloom as early as the first year of its growth cycle. When you purchase an established lavender plant, it will typically be ready to bloom in the same year you get it.
If propagating from a cutting, it may take 2-3 years before bloom. Blooming lavender requires a few factors including at least 6 hours of direct sun and well-drained soil. If those needs are met, your lavender should be able to flower that first year.
How do you plant lavender seeds?
Planting lavender seeds can be a fun way to add this versatile and fragrant herb to your garden. While lavender can be planted from plants purchased from a nursery, growing it from seeds can provide a unique blend of colors and give you the satisfaction of having planted it yourself.
Before planting lavender seeds, start them indoors in either soil or small pots filled with a mix of perlite, vermiculite, or sand. If growing large amounts of lavender, you may find it easier to start them in flats.
Use a light, sandy soil that is well drained and has a neutral pH. Be sure not to overwater the seeds, as excessive moisture can make them rot. Plant the seeds more shallowly than you would other plants, preferably at a depth of only 1/8 inch.
Next, you need to provide the proper environment for the seeds to germinate. This will be a warm and humid area, with plenty of light. If you can, keep the temperature at around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once your seeds have started to sprout, which will likely take one to two weeks, you can reduce the water and fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer.
After four to six weeks, your seedlings should be ready for transplanting outdoors. Choose a sunny location in your garden, with well-draining soil, and make sure that the temperature is 70 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, as higher temperatures can damage lavender plants.
Be sure to harden off your plants before transplanting them outside, which involves gradually decreasing the amount of water and sun exposure they receive.
Finally, be sure to water your plants regularly and shape the plants through pruning. One to two times a year, prune off any dead flowers and stems when the plant is not in bloom. This will help keep the plant healthy so it can produce the most flowers.
With proper care and attention, you can enjoy your lavender plants and the calming scent they bring to your garden for years to come.
Is lavender seed hard to grow?
Growing lavender from seed can be a bit of a challenge, so it is not the best way for novice gardeners to start. Lavender is a slow-germinating plant and the seeds need to be cold stratified in order to break their dormancy.
That means that you will need to chill the seeds in the refrigerator for several weeks before planting them. Lavender is also a “low-germinating” seed, meaning that the germination rate is very low; even for experienced gardeners, success can still be spotty.
Additionally, Lavender doesn’t like high fertilizer rates, so make sure you use a balanced mix and apply lightly. Finally, Lavender doesn’t do well in the heat, so it’s best to start sowing the seeds indoors in winter and transplant the plants outside due to their slow growth.
In short, with proper preparation and care, it is possible to grow lavender from seed — but it requires patience and a bit of extra effort.
How long does it take to grow lavender?
Growing lavender typically takes between 3 and 4 years, depending on how it is cultivated. This is because lavender has a long life cycle and requires a few years to reach its full potential. The first year is usually focused on nurturing and cultivating the soil before the sapling is planted.
The second and third years are the most important for crop production, as the lavender is establishing into its new environment and rapidly growing. Once the lavender reaches the end of its 3-4 year growth period, it should flower yearly for more than 10 years.
Does lavender grow quickly from seed?
Yes, lavender can grow quickly from seed in the right conditions. Lavender can be grown from seed in USDA hardiness zones 5-9. Lavender is an annual with a life cycle of two years and for best results, plant the seeds between February and May.
Plant the seeds in well-draining, fertile soil that is on the alkaline side. Keep the soil slightly moist and don’t allow it to dry out. Place the lavender in full sun with at least 8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Enrich the soil with compost or aged manure. Germination of lavender seeds will occur in just a few weeks, while it can take up to 14 weeks for full growth. Be sure to supply lavender plants with a light fertilizer throughout their growing season.
Once the plants have grown a few inches, thin them out, so that the mature plants have some space around them.
Should you soak lavender seeds before planting?
Yes, it is recommended to soak lavender seeds before planting. Soaking the seeds helps germination and speeds up the emergence of the seedlings. To soak them, place the seeds in a bowl of distilled water, making sure that the seeds are completely submerged.
Allow them to soak for 12-24 hours, then drain and plant. Moisten the soil before planting, and until the seeds germinate, keep them moist. Properly soaking lavender seeds before planting is a beneficial practice that can lead to healthier, more robust plants.
Why won’t my lavender seeds sprout?
There could be several reasons as to why your lavender seeds are not sprouting. The most common reasons are temperature and moisture. You’ll want to make sure the temperature remains steady and that you are providing adequate moisture for the seeds.
If the environment is too dry, the seeds may not germinate. To help ensure proper moisture, consider using a seed starting tray or peat pellets. Additionally the seeds could be too old or dead. Lavender seeds typically remain viable for two to three years.
If the seeds are older than that, it’s likely they are no longer viable. When planting lavender seeds, be sure to use seeds that are no more than a few years old for your best success rate. Another factor is planting depth.
Lavender seeds should be planted no more than 1/8 inch deep. Planting them too deep may cause them to become dehydrated before they can germinate. Lastly, the soil may be too wet or dense. Lavender seeds prefer a well-draining soil and prefer to have plenty of oxygen and loose soil.
If the soil is too dense, amend it prior to planting by adding a light layer of peat, compost, or sand.
Do lavender seeds need cold stratification?
Yes, lavender seeds generally need cold stratification in order to germinate. Cold stratification is a process that mimics winter weather conditions, in which the seeds are exposed to moist, cold temperatures in order to break down seed dormancy.
It’s important because lavender often has impermeable seed coats that prevent the seeds from absorbing water and taking in enough oxygen to germinate. The cold temperatures weaken the seed coating and allow the seeds to take up water and oxygen and finally germinate.
To do this, place the lavender seeds in moist paper towels and store them in the refrigerator for about a month before planting them. This process can be further hastened with warm stratification – an alternating back-and-forth cycle of cold and warm temperatures.
What is the growing medium for lavender?
The most suitable growing medium for lavender is a well-drained, light and gravelly soil. It needs to be low in nutrients and ideally be slightly alkaline in nature. Lavender does not enjoy a “wet feet” situation, meaning that it does not like to have its roots constantly sitting in wet soil, so it flourishes with a well-drained soil.
Additionally, you can add compost to provide it with additional nutrients. Lavender grows best when it has full sunlight, so make sure that the plant has access to 8 hours of sun exposure in its first year.
In its later years, it can tolerate partial shade.