How to Plant Munstead Lavender in Pots
Munstead lavender is a small yet fragrant variety of lavender that is perfect for growing in pots. Its petite size and fragrant purple blooms make it a popular choice for adding some beauty and scent to your porch, balcony, or garden. If you're interested in planting your own Munstead lavender in a pot, keep reading for some tips on how to do so successfully.
Choosing the Right Pot
The first step to successfully growing Munstead lavender in a pot is choosing the right container. You'll want to choose a pot that is about 12 to 16 inches in diameter with good drainage holes at the bottom. Lavender plants don't like their roots to be too wet, so it's important to choose a pot that will allow for proper drainage.
Preparing the Soil
Once you have your pot, it's important to prepare the soil before planting your Munstead lavender. Lavender plants prefer well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. You can use a mix of potting soil, sand, and perlite to create a soil mixture that will drain well and provide the proper nutrients for your lavender to thrive.
Planting the Lavender
When you're ready to plant your Munstead lavender, begin by filling your pot with the soil mixture, leaving a small space at the top of the pot for watering. Remove the lavender from its container and gently loosen the roots before placing it in the pot. Add soil around the root ball, gently pressing it down with your fingers to eliminate any air pockets. Water the lavender thoroughly after planting.
Caring for Your Lavender
Once your lavender is planted, it's important to give it the proper care to ensure that it thrives. Munstead lavender prefers full sun and well-draining soil, so make sure to place your pot in a sunny location where it will receive six to eight hours of sunlight daily. Water your lavender regularly, making sure not to overwater it. Lavender plants prefer to dry out between waterings, so wait until the soil is dry to the touch before watering again. You can also fertilize your lavender every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer to give it an extra boost.
Harvesting Lavender
One of the best things about growing Munstead lavender in pots is that it's easy to harvest the fragrant flowers once they bloom. You can harvest the lavender by cutting the stems just above the leaves, taking care not to remove too much of the plant. Once harvested, you can hang the lavender upside down to dry, or use the stems to create fragrant sachets or wreaths.
In Conclusion
Growing Munstead lavender in pots is a great way to add some beauty and fragrance to your outdoor space. By choosing the right pot, preparing the soil, planting your lavender properly, and giving it the proper care, you can enjoy fragrant blooms all season long.