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Beginning late Spring 2007, we will offer 4"
and gallon sized plants for pick-up at our farm (sorry
we do not ship plants).
Lavender is an aromatic, evergreen shrub that thrive
in full sun and well-drained soil. Species of the
Stonechats and Lavandulas are the most commonly cultivated.
Stoechas, or Spanish lavender are used primarily as
ornamental plants because of their showy bracts and
blossoms. All of the most commercially significant
lavender cultivars are in the section Lavandula and
all come from three species: L.angustifolia, L. x
intermedia and L. latifolia. These three species are
commonly referred to as true lavender.
Mountainside Lavender grows both Lavandins (a cross
between Lavandula angusifolia and Lavandula latifolia)
and Angustifolias. Lavandins are often referred to
as French Lavender and are characterized by longer
stems and high oil yields. Angustifolia, or English
Lavender, are smaller plants, have earlier bloom times
and have a generally sweeter scent.
Growing Lavender
Lavender is a relatively easy plant to grow if you
know just a little bit about its needs.
Here are some tips on growing lavender:
- Choose plants that are known to grow well in your
climate zone. Your nursery can help you with this.
- Space your plants so there will be plenty of room
for air flow around the plant once it matures.
- Place plants in an area where they can get lots
of sun.
- Make sure the soil has very good drainage. Lavender
hates to have "wet feet"
- A soil pH of 7.5 is ideal. If necessary, add lime
to increase pH.
- Make sure the hole is big enough to accommodate
the root spread.
- Mix a little bone meal in with the soil at the
bottom of the hole when planting.
- Prune plants in early spring or in the fall after
harvesting for good plant shape and flower growth.
- Remember not to "baby" your lavender.
They seem to thrive on near neglect!
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