Keeping your garden in shape can be a challenge, especially with the diverse needs of various flowers, shrubs, trees, and bushes. Lindsey Chastain, founder of The Waddle and Cluck, shares her insights on how to effectively care for lavender shrubs, a popular choice for many gardens.
Understanding Lavender Shrubs
Lavender (Lavandula) is a stunning shrub known for its fragrant purple flowers and silvery-green foliage. However, over time, lavender plants can become woody and leggy, leading to less vibrant green leaves and fewer blooms. This decline often results from inadequate pruning, which is essential for maintaining their health and appearance.
Importance of Pruning
Lindsey emphasizes the significance of regular pruning to rejuvenate lavender plants. She explains, “Lavender plants can become woody and leggy over time, with less lush green foliage and fewer flowers. This is often due to inadequate pruning.”
To restore your lavender’s vitality, Lindsey recommends performing a significant prune. “Cutting about two-thirds of the plant away will stimulate fresh new growth from the base,” she advises. When pruning, it’s crucial to make clean cuts above any bare or dead woody stems and to shape the remaining stems and foliage to create a balanced appearance.
Pruning Techniques
Timing is Key: The best time to prune lavender is in October. This timing allows the plant to recover before the winter months.
Make Clean Cuts: Always use sharp, clean shears to prevent damage and infection. Cut above any bare or dead wood to encourage new growth.
Shape the Plant: After cutting back the majority of the plant, shape the remaining stems for a uniform look.
Despite her initial hesitation about pruning her own plants, Lindsey encourages gardeners to “just proceed with caution,” reminding them that it’s always possible to cut more later if needed.
Additional Care Tips
Beyond pruning, proper soil drainage is crucial for the long-term health of lavender shrubs. Lindsey suggests ensuring that the soil is well-draining to avoid future woodiness. If your soil lacks drainage, consider adding compost or gravel to improve it.
Conclusion
By following these expert tips from Lindsey Chastain, you can effectively care for your lavender shrubs, ensuring they remain vibrant and healthy for years to come. With regular pruning and proper soil management, your lavender can thrive and continue to be a beautiful addition to your garden.
Related topics: