Lavandula angustifolia, 'Hidcote Blue'

Germination

Sow indoors Feb-Apr. Sow directly May-July. Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed compost. Just cover seed with a sprinkling of soil. Ideal temp. 15-20°C. Germination takes 2 weeks approx. but can be erratic and take up to 90 days. If germination has not occurred after 4 weeks try cold stratification. Move to -4°C-+4°C. for 4-6 weeks then return to warmth. After germination grow on in cooler temp. of 15°C. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out when danger of frost has passed with 45cm spacing. For direct sowing, sow 5mm deep into prepared soil, thin to required spacing.

Growing

Prefers a well-drained soil in a sheltered, sunny position.

Cultivation

Lavender is short-lived and will need replacing after 7-10 years. These shrubs flower on new wood therefore annual pruning will improve flowering and prevent them from becoming woody. Prune immediately after flowering or in the subsequent spring. Remove shoots that have flowered to within 2cm of previous years growth. Pruning group 10.