Instructions on Planting a Lavender Field

Lavender is a beautiful herb with many practical uses. Part of the same family as thyme and sage, lavender can be used as a cooking spice. Herbalists use it medicinally as an antiseptic and an antifungal agent, among other things. Lavender oil is used to enhance the fragrance of many beauty products. This combination of usefulness and beauty is why lavender is a favorite with gardeners. With forethought and the correct preparation, even a beginning gardener can raise a field of lavender.

There are many species of lavender, so it's important to do your research to discover the best varieties for your location. English, French and Spanish lavenders are the most recognizable. In general, cooler locations that receive snow each year should focus on English-type lavenders. Warmer locations may find success with Spanish or French types. English lavenders are most hardy. When in doubt, an English lavender is probably a good choice.

For the best results, start by purchasing young plants. While it is possible to grow lavender from seed, you'll have fewer options because many varieties are not available as seeds. Also, it takes lavender a few months to mature to its blooming stage, so you may not see blooms your first season.

Lavender plants require six to eight hours of full sun daily, good drainage, lots of room for air to circulate, and slightly acidic soil---pH 6.5 to 7.5--to grow and bloom. Soil testing kits are available through most local university agricultural extension centers as well as many home and garden stores. Use a soil testing kit to determine if you need to amend your soil so it's better suited for growing lavender. Amending can also improve the drainage quality of your soil. This is very important because lavender will die if the roots remain too wet.

Your location should also be treated for weeds prior to planting. Young lavender plants are easily overtaken by weeds, and it's difficult to weed among many lavender plants without harming them. One way to discourage weeds is to lay weed matting down prior to planting. Another option is to mulch after planting.

For best results, plant lavender in the spring after the last frost. Lavender plants should be spaced 12 to 18 inches apart. This allows the plants to grow and still maintain good air circulation. After planting, apply compost or a small particle mulch around the plants to help discourage weeds and to provide additional nutrients to the soil.

Newly planted lavender should be watered regularly to help it get established. Established plants, however, are pretty drought resistant, and should be watered only after the ground has completely dried out. Plants should be pruned yearly after blooming. Prune down the flower stem and one-third of the woody stem to encourage more blooms the next season.