Lavender Plugs: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing, Planting, and Caring for Lavender Plugs
Lavender (Lavandula) is one of the most popular perennial plants, known for its fragrant flowers and silvery-green foliage. It’s a favorite in gardens for its aesthetic appeal and its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Growing lavender from plugs, which are young plants raised in small cells or trays, is a highly effective way to establish a healthy, long-lasting lavender garden. Lavender plugs offer gardeners a cost-effective and space-efficient method for cultivating this aromatic herb.
In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into everything you need to know about lavender plugs, from how to select the right plugs for your garden to tips for planting, growing, and maintaining them.
What Are Lavender Plugs?
Lavender plugs are small, young lavender plants that are typically grown in trays with individual cells. These plugs are nurtured in greenhouses under controlled conditions until they are ready to be transplanted into your garden or pots. Unlike lavender seeds, which can take weeks to germinate, lavender plugs offer a head start for gardeners, as they are already well-rooted and ready for the next stage of growth.
Benefits of Using Lavender Plugs
• Faster Growth: Since the plants are already germinated and rooted, they grow faster than lavender started from seeds.
• Higher Success Rate: Lavender seeds can be tricky to grow due to variable germination rates. Using plugs ensures a higher success rate.
• Easier Handling: Handling lavender plugs is much simpler than working with seeds or cuttings.
• Season Extension: Lavender plugs can be planted earlier in the growing season, extending your gardening window.Choosing the Right Lavender Variety
Before purchasing lavender plugs, it’s essential to choose the right variety based on your climate, soil type, and intended use for the lavender (decorative, culinary, or for essential oil production).
Popular Lavender Varieties:
1. English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): This is the most common lavender variety, known for its fragrant, long-lasting blooms. It thrives in temperate climates and is ideal for decorative purposes, culinary uses, and oil production.
2. French Lavender (Lavandula dentata): Known for its serrated leaves and vibrant purple flowers, French lavender is more suited to warmer climates and is often used for decorative purposes.
3. Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas): Recognizable by its distinctive pineapple-shaped flower heads, Spanish lavender is excellent for hot, dry regions.
4. Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia): A hybrid of English and Portuguese lavender, lavandin is larger and more robust, producing a high volume of essential oil.Climate Considerations
Lavender thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Most lavender varieties are drought-tolerant and can withstand hot, dry conditions once established. However, it’s important to select a variety that matches your local climate.
• Cold Climates: English lavender is more frost-hardy and can withstand colder temperatures, making it a good choice for regions with cold winters.
• Hot Climates: French and Spanish lavender are more suited to warmer, Mediterranean-like climates.Purchasing Lavender Plugs
Lavender plugs can be purchased from nurseries, garden centers, or online. When purchasing lavender plugs, look for the following qualities to ensure healthy and robust plants:
• Strong Root System: Plugs should have a well-developed root system. The roots should be visible and strong but not root-bound.
• Healthy Foliage: The leaves should be green or silvery, depending on the variety, and free from yellowing or wilting.
• Disease-Free: Check for any signs of disease, pests, or mold, which could hinder the growth of your lavender.Online vs. Local Purchase
While purchasing from a local nursery allows you to inspect the plugs in person, buying online can offer a wider selection of lavender varieties. If purchasing online, make sure to buy from reputable suppliers like Great Lakes Lavender Farm who specialize in lavender or herb plants.
How to Plant Lavender Plugs
Planting lavender plugs correctly is essential for ensuring that the plants thrive in their new environment. Follow these steps for planting lavender plugs in your garden or pots:
Step 1: Prepare the Soil
Lavender prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soil. If your garden soil is heavy or clay-like, you’ll need to improve drainage by mixing in organic matter such as compost or adding coarse sand or gravel.
• pH Range: Aim for a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Lavender does not do well in acidic soil.
• Amendments: If your soil is acidic, you can amend it with lime to raise the pH to the desired level.Step 2: Space the Plants
Lavender plants need space to grow and breathe. Crowded lavender plants are more prone to disease, and poor air circulation can hinder growth.
• Spacing: Space lavender plugs at least 12 to 18 inches apart, depending on the variety. Lavandin varieties, which are larger, may require 24 to 36 inches of space between plants.Step 3: Dig Holes for the Plugs
Dig holes that are slightly larger than the root ball of the lavender plug. Ensure that the holes are deep enough to accommodate the entire root system but not too deep, as lavender prefers to sit slightly above ground level.
Step 4: Plant the Plugs
Carefully remove the lavender plugs from their trays, taking care not to damage the roots. Place the plug in the prepared hole, and gently firm the soil around the base of the plant. Water the plug lightly after planting to help the roots settle.
Step 5: Mulch the Soil (Optional)
You can add a thin layer of mulch, such as gravel or small stones, around the base of the lavender plant. Avoid using organic mulches like bark, which can retain too much moisture and cause root rot.
Lavender Plug Care and Maintenance
Caring for lavender plugs is relatively straightforward, but they do require specific conditions to thrive. Here are the essential care tips to ensure your lavender plants grow strong and healthy.
Watering Lavender Plugs
Lavender is drought-tolerant, but young plants still require regular watering until they establish their root system.
• Watering Frequency: Water lavender plugs once or twice a week during the first growing season. After the plants are established, water them sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
• Avoid Overwatering: Overwatering can cause root rot, which is one of the most common problems with lavender plants. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and never water the plants from overhead, as this can promote fungal diseases.Fertilizing Lavender Plugs
Lavender plants do not require heavy feeding. Over-fertilizing can result in lush foliage but fewer flowers.
• Fertilizer: If you choose to fertilize, use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer once a year in early spring. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, which promote leaf growth at the expense of blooms.Pruning Lavender
Pruning lavender encourages bushier growth, prevents the plant from becoming leggy, and helps maintain its shape.
• When to Prune: Prune lavender in early spring or after the first flush of flowers in mid-summer.
• How to Prune: Trim back the top third of the plant, being careful not to cut into the woody stems, as lavender does not regrow from old wood.Protecting Lavender in Winter
In colder climates, lavender may require protection from frost and freezing temperatures.
• Winter Mulching: In zones where freezing occurs, apply a thin layer of mulch (such as straw) around the base of the plant to insulate the roots.
• Indoor Growing: If growing lavender in pots, you can move them indoors during the winter months to protect them from frost.Common Lavender Plug Problems and Solutions
While lavender is a relatively low-maintenance plant, a few common issues can affect its growth and health. Here’s how to identify and solve these problems.
- Root Rot
Root rot is caused by overly wet conditions, particularly in poorly-drained soil. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth.
Solution: Ensure that the soil is well-drained, and reduce watering. You may need to replant the lavender in a raised bed or pot if the soil remains too wet.
- Fungal Diseases
Lavender can be susceptible to fungal diseases, especially if planted in areas with poor air circulation or excessive moisture.
Solution: Water the plants at the base and avoid overhead watering. Prune plants regularly to improve air circulation and reduce humidity around the plants.
- Pest Infestation
Lavender is generally pest-resistant, but in rare cases, aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies may attack the plants.
Solution: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat pest infestations. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs to keep pests at bay.
Harvesting and Using Lavender
Once your lavender plants are established and flowering, you can start harvesting the fragrant blooms for various uses.
When to Harvest Lavender
The best time to harvest lavender is when about half of the flower buds have opened. This is when the essential oil concentration is highest, making it ideal for crafting, cooking, or distillation.
How to Harvest Lavender
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the flower stems just above the foliage. Be sure to leave enough foliage on the plant to promote continued growth.
Uses for Lavender
• Essential Oils: Distill the flowers to create lavender essential oil, which has a wide range of uses, from aromatherapy to skincare. Lavender oil is known for its calming and soothing properties, making it a popular choice for relieving stress, anxiety, and promoting sleep.
• Culinary Uses: Lavender is a versatile herb that can be used in cooking. The flowers add a subtle floral flavor to dishes such as cakes, cookies, and salads. Lavender is also a key ingredient in the French herb blend known as “Herbes de Provence.”
• Crafting: Dried lavender flowers can be used in a variety of craft projects, including sachets, wreaths, and potpourri. The fragrant blooms retain their scent for months, making them a favorite for decorative purposes.
• Medicinal Uses: Lavender has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used to make soothing balms or salves for minor cuts, burns, or insect bites.
Drying Lavender
Drying lavender is a simple process that preserves the flowers and fragrance for future use. Follow these steps for drying lavender:
1. Harvest at the Right Time: Harvest lavender when the flower buds have just begun to open, as this is when the fragrance is most intense.
2. Tie in Small Bunches: Gather the lavender stems into small bunches and tie them with string or rubber bands.
3. Hang to Dry: Hang the bunches upside down in a cool, dark place with good air circulation. This will help preserve the color and fragrance of the flowers.
4. Store: Once the lavender is fully dried (after about 1-2 weeks), store the flowers in an airtight container to retain their fragrance and prevent mold.
Growing Lavender Plugs in Pots
If you don’t have space in your garden or if you live in an area with harsh winters, growing lavender plugs in pots is an excellent alternative. Potted lavender plants can be easily moved indoors during cold weather, and they add beauty and fragrance to patios, balconies, and indoor spaces.
Choosing the Right Pot
Lavender prefers to be slightly root-bound, so choose a pot that is only a little larger than the root ball of the plug. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom, which can lead to root rot.
• Material: Terracotta pots are a great choice because they allow excess moisture to evaporate through the walls of the pot, helping to keep the soil dry.
• Size: A pot with a diameter of at least 12-16 inches is suitable for one lavender plant. Larger pots are ideal for growing multiple plugs.
Potting Soil
Lavender thrives in well-draining soil, so choose a light potting mix that contains perlite, sand, or gravel. You can also create your own potting mix by combining equal parts of garden soil, compost, and coarse sand or gravel.
Care for Potted Lavender
• Watering: Lavender in pots needs more frequent watering than plants grown in the ground. Water the pot thoroughly but allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in the winter months when the plant is not actively growing.
• Fertilizing: Feed potted lavender with a balanced fertilizer once in early spring to promote healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause leggy growth and fewer flowers.
• Pruning: Just like garden-grown lavender, potted lavender benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote bushy growth. Trim back the plant by one-third in spring to encourage new growth.
Overwintering Potted Lavender
In cold climates, lavender in pots should be moved indoors before the first frost. Place the pots in a sunny window or a cool, well-lit room where the temperature stays above freezing. Reduce watering during the winter months, and avoid placing the plants near drafty windows or heating vents, which can dry out the foliage.
Propagating Lavender from Plugs
Once you have established healthy lavender plants from plugs, you may want to propagate more plants to expand your garden or share with friends. Lavender can be easily propagated from cuttings, allowing you to create new plants identical to the parent plant.
How to Take Cuttings
1. Select a Healthy Stem: Choose a non-flowering stem from the parent plant that is about 4-6 inches long.
2. Remove Lower Leaves: Strip the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to expose the stem.
3. Dip in Rooting Hormone: Although not essential, dipping the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone can help speed up the rooting process.
4. Plant in Potting Mix: Insert the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Water lightly and place the pot in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight.
5. Keep Moist: Keep the soil moist but not soggy until roots develop (usually 4-6 weeks). Once the cutting has rooted, you can transplant it into the garden or a larger pot.
Lavender Plugs and Companion Planting
Lavender is an excellent companion plant that can enhance the health and growth of neighboring plants. Its aromatic foliage helps repel certain pests, and its flowers attract beneficial pollinators.
Best Companion Plants for Lavender
• Roses: Lavender and roses make a classic combination. The lavender helps repel aphids and other pests that commonly attack roses.
• Thyme: Both lavender and thyme thrive in similar conditions, making them ideal companions. Thyme can act as a ground cover around lavender plants, helping to suppress weeds.
• Sage: Sage and lavender complement each other both visually and in terms of growth requirements. Both herbs thrive in dry, well-drained soil.
• Echinacea: Echinacea (coneflower) pairs well with lavender, as both attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Plants to Avoid Planting Near Lavender
• Mint: Mint is a water-loving plant that requires rich, moist soil, making it a poor companion for lavender, which prefers dry conditions.
• Hostas: Hostas thrive in shady, moist environments, the opposite of lavender’s sun-loving and dry-soil preferences.
Conclusion: Why Lavender Plugs are a Smart Choice
Lavender plugs offer an efficient and reliable way to grow lavender in your garden, whether you’re planting in the ground or in pots. By starting with well-established plugs, you eliminate the uncertainty of seed germination and give your lavender plants a head start. With proper care, lavender plugs will quickly develop into robust, fragrant plants that can provide years of enjoyment.
From selecting the right variety for your climate to properly planting, caring for, and harvesting your lavender, this guide provides all the information you need to successfully grow lavender plugs. Whether you’re a novice gardener or an experienced grower, lavender plugs are an excellent investment for creating a beautiful, aromatic landscape.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy the many benefits of lavender in your garden—its soothing scent, vibrant blooms, and the wildlife it attracts. Plus, with lavender’s many uses, from culinary delights to natural remedies, you’ll be glad you added this versatile plant to your garden.
In summary, lavender plugs offer a convenient, low-maintenance way to grow lavender, whether for personal enjoyment or commercial purposes. Proper planting and care will reward you with healthy plants and an abundance of fragrant flowers year after year.
