Lavender is an organically grown, very aromatic plant with little purple flowers with a very fragant aroma. The leaves have the same fragant aroma. Lavender originates from the Mediterranean area and needs dry and sunny conditions to thrive. The flowers and stems are hanged upside down to dry. Lavender is used for example to make ice-cream, candy and as sugar flowers for cake decoration. A herbal tea made from the dried flowers and leaves is very soothing and relaxing. The flowers are also used to make an very aromatic and soothing oil, which is used to make soaps and other cosmetic products.
Stratification: 1 week
Indoor sowing: Februar - April
Outdoor sowing: September - October
Germination: 14 - 42 days
Germination temp.: 20 - 22 °C
Sowing depth: 5 - 6 mm
Planting distance: 45 - 60 cm
Plant position: sunny - sheltered
Days till harvest: 120 - 130
Harvest period: June - August
Lavender seeds are known to germinate very irregularly. According to some sources, they germinate better when they are stratified. To do this, place the sealed packet of seeds in the refrigerator for about 1 week. Then let them slowly warm up to temperature.
In February, you can start sowing indoors or under glass in airy seed compost. Keep the soil moist but certainly not too wet, because it can take a long time for the seeds to germinate and the seeds can become moldy if the soil is too wet. The seeds must be covered with a very thin layer of seed compost because they need light to germinate. The correct germination temperature is also important because a temperature that is too low can cause the seeds to rot. Also make sure that the temperature is as even as possible and don't let the temperature drop at night.
Transplant the seedlings into separate pots as soon as they are large enough to handle. In May, once there is no longer any risk of night frost, gradually allow the seedlings to get used to the outside temperature (10 - 14 days). After this, they can be placed in their permanent place in the garden or border. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained, sandy soil with possibly some loam. Lavender is a slow grower and will probably not flower in the first year after sowing.
It is also possible to sow lavender outdoors. This can be done from September till October. These seeds will then automatically get a cold period and don't need to be stratified. The seeds will only germinate the following spring. Thin the seedlings out to 15 cm as soon as they are large enough to handle.
It is also possible to plant lavender in pots, these plants do need regular liquid fertilizer to stimulate flowering. Lavender is a perennial plant that should be pruned regularly in autumn and spring for the best results.
Lavender stems and flowers can be dried hanging upside down. Dry the flowers and stems tied together in small bunches. Dry them in a warm, well-ventilated place without sun. Let them dry for about 2 - 4 weeks. The flowers and stems must be thoroughly dry. Store the bunches by hanging them up or remove the flowers and pulverize the stems. In this way they can be stored airtight in, for example, plastic with a lid. The dried lavender can be stored for about 1 - 2 years.
