How To Grow Lavender From Seed Outdoors

To grow lavender from seed outdoors, select high-quality seeds and prepare well-draining soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.

Add lime, bone meal, and compost to create slightly alkaline conditions.

After the last frost, sow seeds 1-2 inches apart and lightly cover them. Provide daily misting and at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.

Avoid overwatering and refrain from fertilizing.

Over 7-10 days, gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions.

Then, transplant them 12-18 inches apart in full sun.

Water thoroughly to help them settle.

Key Takeaways

To grow lavender from seed outdoors, follow these steps:

Select a high-quality seed suitable for your climate, choosing from varieties like English, French, or Spanish lavender.

Prepare the soil by ensuring it has excellent drainage and a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Add lime, bone meal, and compost as necessary.

After the last frost date, sow the seeds on the soil surface and cover lightly with soil or potting mix.

Provide seedlings with daily misting, at least 6 hours of direct sunlight, and avoid overwatering to promote healthy growth.

Once seedlings are established, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions over the course of 7-10 days before transplanting them 12-18 inches apart in a sunny, well-draining location.

Choosing the Right Seeds

When growing lavender from seed, selecting the right variety is crucial for a thriving garden.

Lavender comes in various types, each with distinct characteristics. The most common varieties are English lavender, French lavender, and Spanish lavender, each offering unique benefits and requiring specific growing conditions.

To ensure successful germination, choose seeds with a high germination rate.

English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is a popular choice due to its reliability and hardiness. It thrives in various climates and is renowned for its fragrant blooms, making it a favorite among gardeners.

If you plan to use your lavender harvest for gifting or culinary purposes, English lavender is an excellent option.

French lavender (Lavandula dentata) and Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas) are also popular options.

French lavender is distinguished by its delicate, serrated leaves and robust growth in warmer climates.

Spanish lavender features distinctive, pineapple-shaped blooms and excels in hot, dry conditions.

These varieties can add a unique touch to your garden, but they require specific care to flourish.

Regardless of the variety, ensure that the seeds are of high quality and suitable for well-drained soil.

High-quality seeds have a better chance of germinating and growing into healthy plants.

The initial step of selecting the right seeds is vital for successfully growing lavender that can serve and delight others in numerous ways.

Preparing the Soil

Proper soil preparation is crucial for lavender plants to thrive. Ensure the soil has excellent drainage, as waterlogged conditions can hinder growth.

To achieve this, create raised soil mounds or mix sand into the soil. Lavender prefers a slightly alkaline environment, which can be achieved by incorporating lime, bone meal, and compost into the soil. Adding crushed oyster shell or limestone gravel can further increase the soil's alkalinity.

Test the soil's pH, as lavender thrives in a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. Purchase a pH testing kit from a garden center to determine the pH level.

If the pH is too low, add lime to raise it to the desired level. If the soil is too alkaline, add organic matter to balance it out.

Before planting, remove all weeds and debris from the area. Weeds compete for nutrients, water, and light, hindering lavender growth.

Clearing debris ensures a clean and healthy environment for the seeds to sprout.

Once the soil is well-drained, alkaline, and free of weeds and debris, it's ready for planting lavender seeds.

Proper soil preparation sets the foundation for successful lavender growth, guaranteeing a strong start for the plants in their new outdoor environment.

Sowing the Seeds

With the soil prepared, it's time to sow lavender seeds, promoting successful germination. Plant seeds outdoors after the last frost date, ensuring the weather is warm enough. Lightly scratch the soil surface and add potting mix if necessary to create a suitable bed for the seeds.

Space seeds 1-2 inches apart to provide ample room for growth. Lavender seeds require light to germinate, so sow them on the soil surface. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil or potting mix, no more than a quarter-inch deep.

Sowing Lavender Seeds: Key Steps

Step	Action	Note
1. Timing	Sow after the last frost date	Warm weather is vital
2. Spacing	Space seeds 1-2 inches apart	Provides room for growth
3. Light Requirement	Sow on soil surface	Seeds need light to germinate
4. Covering Seeds	Thin layer of soil/potting mix	No more than a quarter-inch deep
5. Watering	Water lightly	Settles soil, keeps it moist without overwatering

Water lightly to settle the soil around the seeds. Keep the soil consistently moist during the first few weeks, but avoid overwatering to prevent poor germination and seedling growth.

For direct sowing, consider doing so in the fall if your winters aren't too cold and wet. Be mindful of wildlife and weather conditions, which can affect seed success. By following these steps, you'll set the stage for your lavender seeds to thrive, bringing beauty and fragrance to your outdoor space.

Caring for Seedlings

Caring for Lavender Seedlings

To promote healthy growth, lavender seedlings require daily misting and at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. Adequate sunlight is essential, as lavender thrives in bright conditions. Consistent misting and proper light exposure will result in strong and vibrant seedlings.

It is crucial to avoid overwatering, as lavender seedlings are sensitive to excess moisture, which can cause root rot. A light misting is sufficient to maintain soil surface moisture without drenching the soil. Refrain from fertilizing at this stage, as lavender doesn't require heavy fertilization, and excessive fertilization can harm seedling development.

As seedlings grow, transfer them to larger pots to accommodate their expanding root systems. Ensure ample space for root growth by using a well-draining soil mix incorporating perlite to improve aeration and drainage, preventing waterlogging and reducing the risk of root rot.

Maintain a balance when watering, ensuring the soil is moist but not soggy. Check the soil's moisture level before watering to prevent overwatering. Protect seedlings from extreme temperatures and weather conditions, as they're still delicate and vulnerable.

Transplanting Outdoors

Transplanting Lavender Outdoors: A Step-by-Step Guide

Once the danger of frost has passed, typically in late spring to early summer, it's time to move your lavender seedlings outdoors. Ensure the soil has warmed up and the air temperature consistently stays above 60°F (15°C).

Hardening Off

Gradually expose your seedlings to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days to reduce transplant shock. Start with a few hours of sunlight and increase the duration each day.

Selecting the Ideal Location

Choose a location with full sun and well-draining soil. Lavender thrives in slightly alkaline soil with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5.

Preparing the Soil

Loosen the soil and remove any weeds. Plant your seedlings 12-18 inches apart to allow for ample growth. Dig a hole that comfortably accommodates the root ball of each seedling.

Transplanting

Avoid transplanting during the hottest part of the day or during extreme weather conditions like heatwaves or heavy rainfall. Instead, opt for early morning or late afternoon to minimize stress on the plants.

Post-Transplanting Care

Water seedlings gently but thoroughly to help them settle into their new environment. Keep the soil consistently moist during the first few weeks to prevent stress and encourage strong root development. Be cautious not to overwater, as lavender prefers drier conditions once established.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Plant Lavender Seeds Directly Outside?

You can plant lavender seeds directly outside, but ensure proper outdoor soil preparation, including good soil drainage and sufficient sun exposure. To achieve success, follow direct sowing tips: plant seeds at the correct depth, space seedlings appropriately, provide adequate watering, protect from frost, choose compatible companion plants, and apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

How Long Does It Take to Grow Lavender From Seed?

Lavender seeds take around 15-20 days to germinate, with the seedling emerging during this period. The entire growth cycle, from sowing to maturity, typically spans 1-2 years. Throughout this process, you can observe distinct developmental stages, with the plant usually blooming after the first year.

Where Is the Best Place to Plant Lavender Seeds?

To optimize lavender seed germination and growth, plant in a location with full sun and well-draining soil. Ensure proper soil preparation, precise planting depth, and effective weed control to prevent competition. Strategically incorporate companion plants to deter pests, apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture, and maintain a regular watering schedule. Additionally, consider applying fertilizer to enhance growth and promote a healthy, thriving lavender crop.

Are Lavender Seeds Difficult to Germinate?

Lavender seeds can be challenging to germinate, requiring specific conditions. To increase success, ensure seed viability, and provide optimal soil temperature, a suitable germination medium, and consistent watering. Additionally, offer ample light exposure, frost protection, and attentive care during the seedling stage.

Conclusion

To grow lavender from seed outdoors, follow these steps:

Select high-quality seeds suitable for outdoor growth.

Prepare the soil meticulously, ensuring it's well-draining and has a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

Sow the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, about 1/8 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart.

Nurture the seedlings, providing adequate light, moderate watering, and maintaining a temperature of 65-75°F (18-24°C).

Transplant the seedlings outdoors when they've 2-3 sets of leaves, spacing them 12-18 inches apart.

Provide full sun, moderate watering, and regular pruning to promote healthy growth and prevent overcrowding.

With patience and proper care, your lavender plants will thrive, filling your garden with their calming hues and scents, creating a serene oasis.

Note: Make sure to check the specific growing requirements for the specific lavender variety you're planting, as some may have different needs.