How to Plant Lavender Using Low Moisture Potting Soil
If you love aromatic and beautiful flowers, then lavender is a perfect choice for you. Lavender is not just aesthetically pleasing, but it also has a calming effect on your senses. It is easy to grow and maintain, and planting lavender in low moisture potting soil is the best way to ensure its healthy growth. In this article, you will learn how to plant lavender using low moisture potting soil and how to take care of it.
Choosing the Right Pot
Choosing the right pot is the first step in planting lavender. It is recommended to use a pot that has drainage holes to avoid waterlogging. The ideal pot size for lavender is around 8-10 inches, as it allows for proper root growth and a comfortable space for the plant to expand. Avoid using plastic pots, since they retain more moisture and reduce the airflow. Instead, use porous pots made of terracotta, ceramic, or clay as they allow moisture to evaporate easily.
Preparing the Potting Mix
Preparing the potting mix is crucial to ensure the healthy growth of lavender. Low moisture potting soil is the best choice for growing lavender since it contains less peat and more perlite, vermiculite or sand, which help in aeration, drainage, and water retention. Add some organic fertilizers, such as bone meal or compost, to the potting mix to provide essential nutrients to the plant.
Planting the Lavender
Now that you have selected the pot and prepared the potting mix, it's time to plant the lavender. Begin by filling the pot with potting soil, leaving a space of around 2 inches from the top. Loosen the root ball of the lavender plant and place it in the pot, ensuring that the top of the root ball is even with the soil surface. Gently pack in the soil around the base of the plant and water it thoroughly. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Caring for your Lavender
After planting the lavender, it's essential to take proper care of it to ensure its healthy growth. Water the plant deeply and occasionally, rather than frequently, to encourage its roots to grow deep into the soil. Allow the soil to dry out between each watering as lavender prefers well-drained, low moisture soil. In case you are growing lavender indoors, place it in a bright, sunny location where it receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight every day. Prune the plant regularly to promote bushy growth, and remove any dead or diseased parts of the plant.
In Conclusion
Planting lavender using low moisture potting soil is the best way to ensure its optimal growth. Choosing the right pot, preparing the right potting mix, and planting the lavender correctly are the essential steps in growing a healthy plant. Proper care, such as watering and pruning, is equally crucial in maintaining the lavender plant. So, go ahead, bring home a lavender plant, and enjoy its beauty and aroma in your garden or indoors.