By Debbie Roland and
Emmy Ulmschneider
Master Gardeners
Lavender is a hardy low-maintenance plant that is prized for its fragrant flowers. In Texas it is important to protect it from our extreme temperatures in the summer and in the winter.
The common cultivated lavender is English lavender Lavanduila angustifolia (formerly L officinalis). This herb is a bushy perennial that grows on blue green spikes with violet flowers. The oil in the flowers is what gives the plant its fragrance. This plant is called “English” because it is prolific in England’s climate which meets the requirements of good drainage and lots of sun. Good soil is not a requirement which is a plus. Another plus is that it draws in pollinators, butterflies and bees.
Most instructions for planting lavender state “full sun” but as most gardeners know that does not mean full West Texas sun. A pot on your patio or a place in a flowerbed with dappled sun is ideal. I have successfully grown it in my greenhouse as well. Lavender is challenging to grow from seed since seeds can take up to three months to germinate. It is best planted as a young starting plant in the spring when soil has reached 60 degrees and danger of frost is passed. Knowing the exact date of “last frost” is tricky in our area so plan to cover if a late frost occurs.
Plants can reach 3 feet tall and should be planted 3 feet apart. Be sure to mulch but keep the mulch away from the crown of the plant to prevent root rot. Water every day until established then slowly cut back to once per week. You will know if you are overwatering because it will begin to develop yellow leaves.
In early spring do an initial pruning after leaves have begun to bud (not when the plant begins to flower) being careful not to cut into old wood because it will not regrow. Once your plant begins to flower the flowers can be cut and used in arrangements, teas and recipes. It is not necessary to prune in the fall but you can trim off old spent flowers as long as it is not within six weeks of your first frost date, so plan on the last pruning about mid to late September.
To overwinter lavender planted directly in the soil cover with hay or straw to protect from freezing temperatures. If your plant is in a flowerpot it can be moved indoors or to a protected area.
If you have questions, call the AgriLife office in Odessa at 498-4071 or in Midland at 686-4700. Additional information, and our blog for access to past articles, is available at westtexasgardening.org. Click on “Resources.”
