How to Plant Potted Lavender

Lavender is a popular herb known for its calming aroma and beautiful purple flowers. Growing lavender in a pot is a great way to add color and fragrance to your outdoor space or bring the herb indoors. In this guide, we'll go through the steps on how to successfully plant potted lavender.

Choosing the Right Pot

The first step in planting potted lavender is choosing the right pot. Lavender prefers well-draining soil, so make sure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. The size of the pot depends on the size of your lavender plant. If you're starting from a young lavender plant, choose a pot that's at least 8 inches in diameter. For larger plants, choose a pot that’s 16 to 20 inches in diameter.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting, prepare the soil mixture. Lavender prefers a mixture of sand, perlite, and potting soil. Mix equal parts of sand and perlite, then blend in the potting soil. Fill the pot with the soil mixture, leaving about an inch of space from the top.

Planting the Lavender

Remove the lavender plant from its original pot and loosen the soil around the roots. Place the lavender in the center of the pot, making sure it's not too deep or too shallow. Fill the sides of the pot with the soil mixture and gently firm the soil around the plant. Water thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom of the pot.

Caring for Potted Lavender

Water the lavender regularly, making sure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Lavender doesn't like wet feet, so avoid overwatering. Fertilize the lavender once a month with a balanced fertilizer. Trim off any dead flowers or stems to encourage more growth. Lavender prefers full sun and well-ventilated areas, so make sure to place it where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day.

Tips for Growing Potted Lavender

Here are some tips to keep in mind when growing potted lavender:

Plant lavender in the spring or fall when the temperatures are mild.

Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water accumulation at the bottom.

Prune the lavender regularly to keep it healthy.

Harvest lavender flowers just as the buds start to open for optimal scent.

Protect the lavender from strong winds, which can damage the plant.

By following these simple steps and tips, you can successfully grow and enjoy potted lavender in your home or garden. Happy planting!