Lavender is a Mediterranean plant that is quite resistant to drought, even in pots. It is more or less hardy depending on the variety.
How do you properly plant your lavender in a pot?
In its natural environment, lavender likes ordinary, even poor, well-drained soil. So, for your pot, prepare a mix of two-thirds garden soil and one-third sand, or invest in a potting mixdesigned for Mediterranean plants. Don't forget to line the bottom of your tray with clay pimples, this will prevent stagnant water around the roots.
Soak the root ball of your lavender for 30 minutes before planting, then detangle the roots. Then place your plant on a thick layer of substrate and finish by filling in leaving the top of the root ball flush with the surface. Finally, place your lavender in a sunny area of your balcony or terrace as it loves the sun and warmth.
Opt for a container that is at least two to three times the size of its root ball. Otherwise, your lavender won't be able to grow properly due to lack of room for its roots. Finally, it is best to plant your lavender during the shoulder seasons, i.e. in spring or autumn. This will prevent your young plant from experiencing the extreme temperatures of summer and winter during its first few weeks of planting.
In its natural environment, lavender likes ordinary, even poor, well-drained soil. So, for your pot, prepare a mixture of two-thirds garden soil and one-third sand. Copyright (c) 2018 svvlp/Shutterstock. No use without permission.
How do I care for my lavender so that it does well in pots?
Overwatering is the enemy of lavender, which is content with moderate but regular watering. So, don't hesitate to let the substrate dry out completely between waterings. And don't drown your plant after forgetting to water it for a while! Instead, set up a weekly routine, especially during the hot season, and water in small amounts, according to your plant's needs.
Should you prune lavender into a pot?
Yes, after flowering, prune your lavender with shears, just at the level of the leaf tuft. This will allow you to have a beautiful lavender with a well-compacted habit, ideal for growing in pots. Of course, pruning is not mandatory, but if you don't, you risk eventually having a bald plant at the base with dry wood and no flowers. Prune evenly and lightly, and do not prune to dry wood in the heart of the plant. Annual pruning is sufficient.
Protecting a potted lavender in winter
Most lavenders are rather hardy, but growing in pots makes them more sensitive to cold. In addition, some lavender is more sensitive to the cold than others, such as Papillon lavender, for example. So, depending on the area where you live, you may need to overwinter your plant. If this is the case, install it in a bright, ventilated area away from frost.
Fertilization & Fertilizer
Feel free to repot your lavender every 3 years in a larger container with a new substrate. Copyright (c) 2022 Meteoritka/Shutterstock. No use without permission.
Lavender is content with poor soil, so there is no need to fertilize it. However, feel free to repot your lavender every 3 years in a larger container with a new substrate.
Which lavender to grow in pots?
Angustifolia lavender, also known as true lavender, is certainly the best known lavender. It is 40 to 60 cm tall, with a beautiful compact clump and blue-mauve flowers, very fragrant. It thrives in large containers. The Hidcote variety is stockier, with a flowering clump 40 to 50 cm tall and very dark purple spikes. It will be perfect for medium-sized pots and small spaces.
Conversely, the Dutch variety will need more space with its spikes and silvery foliage measuring up to 80cm. If you like originality, try growing lavender on stems in pots. These are recent horticultural varieties that are simply spectacular!