In order for the fragrant perennial to bloom profusely, lavender has to be pruned twice a year. When exactly and how, we explain in detail.
Lavender brings a touch of Provence to the garden. No wonder, then, that the perennial plant can now be found in almost every garden. When you see lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), you inevitably think of a relaxing holiday in the Mediterranean. But lavender has even more benefits. It expels a wonderfully soothing scent that has a relaxing and calming effect. That is why lavender is often used in aromatherapy.
You can only enjoy the benefits of the plant in the long term if you cut lavender regularly, radically and twice a year. If you don't do this, you risk the plant falling apart and lignifying.
Cut the lavender correctly - it depends on the moment
➔ The first cut in late summer
When does lavender bloom?
Lavender blooms in Germany from around June to August. There are flower colors in violet, but also in pink and white.
The first pruning should take place immediately after flowering. Preferably before the flowers have all dried up. Expect around the end of July/beginning of August, depending on the weather. It shouldn't be much later, as the plant still needs enough strength to drive a second flower. This then offers the lavender the so-called winter protection.
- The first time you cut back, only remove the dried flowers.
- This means that the plant is shortened by about a third.
- Be careful not to be overly generous with the first cut.
If you prune your lavender, the lower parts of the plant may not sprout again or the plant may even die off completely.
TIP
Don't throw away the flowers. They offer a wonderfully fragrant potpourri for the home or a fragrant insert in the closet. Simply fill into small bags or place in a bowl.
➔ The second cut in spring
The second cut will take place in spring. But only when no more frost is to be expected. This cut gets a little more radicalaccomplished. This ensures compact growth and many new shoots. You also prevent the plant from becoming too lignified from below. Because where it is lignified, nothing grows out of it and so it is very bare there. So don't be afraid to use the scissors and you'll do everything right.
Make sure that a section of last year's shoot with a few leaves remains. This allows the lavender to sprout vigorously after pruning.
➔ How to cut lavender correctly - video instructions
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What does lavender need?
Apart from the right cut, lavender also needs some care so that you can enjoy the fragrant perennial for a long time.
❏ Lavender in the garden
- Plant lavender in a sunny, dry spot, but never too close to other plants.
- Only water when the soil is really dry - preferably in the morning.
- Fertilizing lavender just once a year is fine, preferably with compost or potassium fertilizer.
❏ Lavender in a pot or bucket
- Lavender needs space - so repot it into a larger container immediately after purchase.
- We only water here when the soil is dry. However, lavender in a pot needs watering more often than the plant in the garden.
- The lavender is planted in the garden for the winter.
The following applies to both planting locations: Avoid waterlogging!