Gardeners growing lavender should do 1 thing weekly this summer
Garden enthusiasts are spoiled for choice when it comes to lavender with an array of varieties on offer such as English, French, and Spanish. The plants distinctive fragrance makes it easy to spot and it's attractive foliage make it stand out from the rest.
The most popular lavender to grow in Britain is the robust English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), especially varieties like Hidcote and Munstead because they are easier to tend to, however this depends if they get enough sunlight and water. A properly pruned lavender can add longevity and vitality to gardens, window displays, and homes, offering eye-catching hues, enticing fragrances, and a haven for l ocal wildlife.
As a Mediterranean plant, lavender can withstand dry spells, which can make gardeners think that it doesn't need watered often. The reality is though that there is critical window when young and container-grown lavenders need attention. Failing to water them when they are newly planted can have an impact on their root development and overall vigour.
According to the Royal Horticultural Society, lavenders which were planted in the ground in Spring, must be treated as tender perennials rather than drought-tolerant shrubs.
The RHS explained that lavender "should be watered regularly during its first summer", roughly once or twice a week, according to the Express.
In very hot spells, the compost may dry out between watering days, so you may need to increase the frequency. This is particularly important for gardeners growing lavender in pots - perhaps as a decorative table plant, on a balcony or patio.
The RHS explained that these are less forgiving than ground-grown lavender as the roots have a limited amount of soil in which to search for moisture.
Aim for a thorough drench, enough that you see water trickling through drainage holes in the pots. Then, allow the compost to approach dryness before the next soak.
This may mean checking the moisture with your finger or a simple soil meter.
Once lavender has passed its first full season and its taproot has plunged downwards, supplementary water becomes the exception.
The RHS notes that in the UK, most established lavender plants will thrive on rainfall alone throughout summer, only requiring irrigation during prolonged periods of drought.
Overwatering at this stage does more harm than good for your lavender plants. It invites root rot and weakens what is considered a very hardy plant.
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How to water lavender
It's not just over- and underwatering that can damage lavender plants. Consistently watering them incorrectly also has its drawbacks.
When watering by hand, direct the liquid to the root or base of the plant; flowers and leaves should contact the irrigation water as little as possible.
Gardening experts agree that it is best to water lavender early in the morning, as this allows the water to evaporate throughout the day. This avoids common fungal diseases, which can occur when water sits on the plant for too long.
Two common fungal issues associated with overwatering are Botrytis and Septoria leaf spot.
Botrytis appears as grey, mouldy growth at the base of the plant, causing leaves to yellow, wilt, and eventually die. Meanwhile, septoria leaf spot starts with small grey spots on the leaves, which can spread and weaken the plant.
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