Use & Care NotesLavender Plants
How to Use and Care for Maillette Lavender Plug Trays
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Maillette lavender in 20-cell plug trays is a great way to start this fragrant, bushy English lavender. Proper planting, watering, and pruning tailored to your USDA zone help you grow strong plants that bloom well year after year.
When to Plant Maillette Lavender Plug Trays
Maillette lavender arrives in 20-cell plug trays ready for planting. The best planting times depend on your USDA zone. In zones 5–6, like West Michigan, plant Maillette lavender in early spring after frost risk fades or in early fall to give roots time to establish before winter. For zones 7–8, early spring or fall planting works well. In zones 9 and warmer, fall planting helps avoid summer heat stress. Use the USDA Zone Finder to check your zone. Avoid planting in heavy, poorly drained soils as this can cause root problems.
Choosing the Right Site and Soil
Maillette lavender thrives in full sun and sharp drainage. Select a site that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The soil should be sandy or gravelly with good airflow and a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Avoid heavy mulching directly at the crown as this can trap moisture and cause rot. Raised beds or slopes improve drainage. Use gravel or sand to amend dense clay soils before planting. Good soil drainage is essential for healthy lavender growth.
How to Plant the 20-Cell Plug Tray
Transplant Maillette lavender plugs gently from the 20-cell trays, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow their 36-inch mature spread. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball. Place the plant so the crown sits just above soil level. Fill soil around roots and press firmly to remove air pockets. Water well after planting to settle soil. Avoid deep planting or covering the crown with soil to prevent crown rot. Mulch lightly with small gravel after establishment to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Watering and Care During Establishment
After planting, water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Keep plugs moist during the first 2 to 3 weeks until roots establish. Once established, watering can be reduced to occasional deep soakings. Overwatering causes root diseases. Monitor soil moisture especially in hot, dry weather. For plant health help, consult the Plant Health Checker. Mulching should be light and kept away from the base to avoid fungal issues.
Pruning to Maintain Shape and Encourage Blooms
Maillette lavender blooms from mid-June through mid-July with repeat flowering. Prune after the summer bloom or harvest, removing about one-third of the green, leafy growth. Always leave 2 to 3 inches of green growth above the woody base. Do not cut into old brown wood as it rarely regrows. Avoid hard pruning after early September since late growth may not harden off before winter. Regular pruning maintains a bushy shape and encourages better blooming the following season.
Winter Care by Zone
Maillette lavender is hardy in zones 5a through 9b. In colder zones (5a–6b), plant in early fall to allow root development before winter. Mulch lightly with gravel or small stones for drainage; avoid heavy organic mulches near crowns. In warmer zones, plants generally require less winter protection. Do not let the crown sit wet during winter to prevent rot. See the Care Calendar for seasonal reminders.
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
Watch for signs of overwatering such as yellowing leaves or crown rot. Improve drainage and reduce watering if this occurs. Stunted, leggy growth may signal insufficient sun or excessive nitrogen fertilizer. Move plants to full sun and avoid high nitrogen fertilizers. Wilted plants may need more watering but check soil first. Avoid pruning into old wood which can cause dieback. Regularly check for pests and remove weeds that compete for moisture and nutrients.
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