Can a Lavender Plant Survive in Water?

Lavender is a popular plant known for its beautiful purple flowers, soothing scent, and use in essential oils. While lavender can be grown in soil, many people wonder if it can be grown in water. The answer is yes, lavender plants can survive in water, but there are a few things to keep in mind before trying to grow one hydroponically.

Choosing the Right Lavender Variety

Not all lavender varieties are suitable for growing in water. Typically, the best varieties for hydroponic growth are the English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and the Spanish lavender (Lavandula stoechas). These plants have roots that are well suited for water growth and can handle the higher humidity levels in hydroponic environments.

Setting Up a Hydroponic Lavender System

When setting up a hydroponic lavender system, it’s important to provide the right conditions for the plant to thrive. First, you’ll need a container with holes in the bottom to allow for drainage. Then, you’ll need to add a layer of gravel or clay pebbles to help support the plant and prevent the roots from sitting in standing water.

Next, you’ll need to add water to the container, making sure to use filtered, distilled, or rainwater. Tap water can contain chemicals and minerals that can harm the plant. Once the water is added, it’s time to place the lavender plant in the container.

Caring for a Hydroponic Lavender Plant

Like any hydroponic plant, lavender needs the right nutrients to grow. You can purchase hydroponic nutrients specifically formulated for lavender or use a general hydroponic nutrient solution. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when adding nutrients to the water.

Hydroponic lavender also needs plenty of light. You can use grow lights or place the lavender in a sunny location, such as a south-facing window. Lavender plants do well in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, so make sure to keep the room at a comfortable temperature.

Finally, make sure to monitor the water level in the container and add more water as needed. You can also check the pH level of the water to make sure it remains between 6.0 and 7.5.

Benefits of Growing Lavender Hydroponically

There are several benefits to growing lavender hydroponically. First, hydroponic systems use less water than traditional soil-based growing methods, making them a more sustainable option. Additionally, hydroponic systems can be set up indoors, allowing you to grow lavender year-round regardless of weather conditions.

Finally, hydroponic systems can produce higher yields of lavender than traditional soil-based systems. With the right conditions, hydroponic lavender can produce up to three times more flowers than soil-grown lavender.

In Conclusion

While growing lavender in water requires a bit more effort than traditional soil-based growing methods, it can be a rewarding and sustainable way to grow this beautiful plant. By choosing the right variety, setting up a hydroponic system, and providing the right care, you can successfully grow lavender hydroponically and enjoy its benefits year-round.