Munstead English Lavender

PERENNIAL

USDA Zones 5-9
Summer/Fall Bloom

BEST TO PLANT INDOORS

In early spring, sow lavender seeds in a container of seed starting mix, cover very lightly and keep at 60-70°F (16-21°C). Keep container moist but not soggy until seedlings slowly emerge over 14 to 28 days, providing a good light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves, transplant into individual 4 inch pots. Plant outside in a well-drained sunny spot when plants are 2 to 3 inches tall after gradually acclimating to outdoor conditions.

TO START IN THE GARDEN

Sow directly into a well-worked, finely textured garden bed in full sun when weather is warm and settled. Cover very lightly. Lavender germinates slowly and unevenly; keep seed bed evenly moist and well weeded.

THIN OR TRANSPLANT

Space seedlings 12 to 18 inches apart when large enough to handle.

GROWING NOTES

Given excellent drainage, this hardy lavender is perennial to zone 5. Plants flower lightly the first season and come into full bloom by their second summer. After blooming season, prune and shape the plants while cutting off spent flower stalks. Bonemeal is a good soil amendment for lavender.

Lavender seeds do not strictly need to be cold stratified to grow, but doing so may improve germination. To cold-moist stratify lavender seeds for spring planting, put seeds in a damp paper towel or mix into damp sand and place in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for 30-60 days to mimic a cold winter period. Then remove seeds and sow in warm conditions in a flat or direct sow in the ground.