How To Grow Lavender

Lavender is an aromatic shrub most often used as a single feature plant or to create a hedge. Lavender plants can also be used mass planted in perennial beds, while the dwarf varieties are perfect to plant under roses. 
There are several different varieties of lavender as well as numerous hybrid forms, and the flowers differ in size and color depending on the species, Colors range through different shades of lavender ,blue, pink, and white as well as lime green  Leaves and stems are a silvery grey-green.
The older varieties of Lavenders are hardy perennial plants that like very well drained slightly alkaline sandy soil and full sun, although in very hot climates some protection during the hottest time of day is beneficial. Lavenders also require regular watering during hot weather. It’s important to check that your soil drains well, as most lavenders will not tolerate wet conditions.

Hybrid forms of Lavender often require more watering, and although some are hardy, many of the hybrids should be treated as annuals.

Although you can grow lavender from seed lavender plants don’t always grow true to species, however you can grow from cuttings taken from a strong healthy plant.
To encourage strong vigorous plants snip back any flowers that form during the first year. Lightly prune and shape your lavender plants every spring to stimulate new growth and prune your plants back 1/3 as soon after flowering as possible. Your lavender will also respond well to liquid fertilizer twice a year.

All the best and Happy Gardening

Margarete
http://www.antspantsgardening.com

Lavender plants are one of the world’s most loved as well as oldest flowering herbs.
The Romans used lavender in their bath water, and used the plant to heal wounds and as an antiseptic.
For hundreds of years lavender was carried to protect against evil. and for centuries has been one of the most popular herbs because of it’s soothing perfume and powerful healing qualities. 

Lavender Plants are a rich in essential oil. The oil is extracted by distillation which requires large quantities of lavender to produce just a small amount of oil. The purest and finest oil is used in the manufacture of some of the worlds best loved perfumes, and is very expensive. Today lavender oil is also used  in cosmetics, soaps and sachets. Some Lavenders have also become popular as a culinary herb, adding special flavor to a wide range of recipes.

Author: Margarete Abel
http://www.antspantsgardening.com