How to Plant a Lavender Tree Outside

Lavender is a popular, fragrant herb that can be grown inside and outside, but its distinctive aroma and beautiful purple color make it an excellent choice for outdoor garden beds or container gardening. Lavender is easy to grow, drought-tolerant, and requires little maintenance once established. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to plant a lavender tree outside.

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot

The first and most important step in planting a lavender tree outside is to select the right spot. Lavender prefers a spot that receives plenty of sunlight (at least six hours per day) and well-draining soil. Avoid planting lavender in areas with standing water or soggy soil as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.

Additionally, it's important to space lavender trees at least 12 to 18 inches apart to promote better airflow and prevent overcrowding, which can also contribute to disease problems.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Before planting lavender, you will need to prepare the soil. Lavender thrives in well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (between 6.5 and 7.5). You can add compost, perlite, or sand to improve soil drainage and structure.

It's essential to loosen the soil several inches deep to provide an ideal environment for lavender roots to grow and establish. Remove any weeds, rocks, or debris from the planting area.

Step 3: Plant the Lavender

Once you have selected the planting spot and prepared the soil, it's time to plant the lavender. Remove the lavender from its container carefully and place it in the center of the planting hole. The hole should be deep enough to cover the entire root ball, but not any deeper than the soil level of the container.

Next, backfill the hole with soil, making sure to gently pack it down around the plant. Water the lavender thoroughly to help settle the soil and ensure good root to soil contact.

Step 4: Mulch the Lavender

After planting, it's a good practice to mulch the lavender. Mulch provides many benefits, such as conserving moisture in the soil, keeping temperatures stable, and suppressing weed growth. Apply a 1 to 2-inch layer of organic mulch, such as shredded leaves, straw, or bark, around the plant.

Step 5: Water and Fertilize Regularly

While lavender is drought-tolerant, it needs regular watering to establish deep roots and maintain healthy growth. Water your lavender once every week or two, depending on the weather conditions and soil. Watering in the morning is best as it allows the water to soak deep into the root zone before the hot sun sets in.

You may fertilize your lavender in the spring or fall when they start to sprout new growth or after blooming. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for herbs or lavender. Follow the instructions carefully and avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to lush, sappy growth that may attract pests and diseases.

Step 6: Prune and Deadhead as Needed

Lavender benefits from annual pruning to promote bushy growth, prevent legginess, and prolong its lifespan. In the spring, remove one-third of the old growth, cutting back to the point where new growth begins. You can deadhead spent flowers at any time to encourage continuous blooming.

Final Thoughts

Planting lavender trees outside is an excellent way to add color, fragrance, and texture to your garden or outdoor space. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of this versatile herb in your landscape for years to come.