Fernleaf Lavender

PERENNIAL

USDA Zones 8-11
Spring/summer bloom

BEST TO PLANT INDOORS

In early spring, sow lavender seeds 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Cover very lightly and keep at 60 to 70°F (16-21°C). Keep evenly moist but not soggy until seedlings slowly emerge over 14 days, providing a good light source. When seedlings have several sets of leaves, transplant 2 inches apart into deeper containers. Plant outside in a well-drained sunny spot when plants are 2 to 3 inches tall after gradually acclimating to outdoor conditions.

THIN OR TRANSPLANT

Space 18 inches apart when seedlings are well established.

GROWING NOTES

Because perennial lavender’s small seeds germinate slowly and unevenly, we strongly recommend starting them indoors so you can tend them carefully. After seedlings are well established, plant them out in a sunny spot with excellent drainage and good air circulation or in big, well-drained pots. Plants flower lightly the first season and come into full bloom in their second summer.

After blooming season, prune and shape the plants while cutting off spent flower stalks. These sturdy plants will take more humidity than other lavenders. Fernleaf plants are beacons for butterflies all summer long.

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.