Lavender
Lavandula sp
Features
Lavender is a fragrant perennial herb which has many varieties such as English, French and Italian lavender. All varieties grow into bushy evergreen shrubs with woody stems and fragrant leaves. Purple to pinkish flowers appear in late winter to summer depending on variety.
Growing Methods
5cm cuttings are the best way to grow lavender as the seeds have a long germination time. Trim off any lower leaves and plant in a mixture of coarse sand and peat moss. Once the cutting has taken root it can then be transferred into a pot with potting mix. Keep the soil on the dry side and apply fertiliser to improve its fragrance.
Lavender is a tough plant but be sure to provide good drainage to avoid root rot. If leaf spot appears it is often a sign of bad air circulation caused by plants being to close together.
Harvesting
Cut flowers before they open in early spring, they can be dried by hanging bunches in a dry airy place. Lavender is not suitable for freezing.
Uses
Fresh and dried flowers can be used in sugars, jellies, ice creams and cheeses. Dried flowers are often used in pot pourris, perfumed sachets and arrangements.
