How to Grow Lavender from Seed: Patience Pays Off
Lavender seed germinates slowly, often taking 2-8 weeks. A few weeks of chilling before sowing can improve results, and plants usually flower in their second year.
Timeline
| Stage | Timing |
|---|---|
| Chill seeds (optional) | 2-4 weeks in the fridge |
| Germination | 2-8 weeks at about 15-21°C |
| Plant out | After frost, once strong |
| First flowers | Often the second summer |
Step-by-step
- Mix seed with damp sand in a bag and chill in the fridge.
- Sow on the surface of gritty, free-draining compost; cover only lightly.
- Keep at a steady, mild temperature and lightly moist.
- Pot on when seedlings have a few leaves.
- Plant in full sun, in poor to average well-drained soil, spaced about 30-45 cm.
Pro tip: Lavender thrives on neglect. Poor, gritty soil gives more fragrant plants than rich soil.
Watch out: Wet, heavy soil in winter is the main killer. Add grit or grow in raised beds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my lavender not germinating?
It's often slow. Keep seed moist and give it up to 8 weeks.
Can lavender grow in pots?
Yes, in a gritty compost with drainage holes.
When should I prune?
Lightly after flowering, never into old bare wood.
Browse: herb seeds at Isle of Seeds.
