3 simple tasks must be done now to get lavender to flower next year

Wales Online

2 days ago

3 simple tasks must be done now to get lavender to flower next year
Lavender is a popular plant for gardeners but it needs the right care to thrive and there are a few simple tasks you need to do now to get it to flower next year.
Lavender will not flower next year unless you complete 3 simple tasks
(Image: Ekaterina savyolova via Getty Images)
Lavender is known to be on the easiest plants to maintain, even for the most novice of gardeners. These aromatic shrubs thrive in gardens and offer numerous advantages, including serving as an excellent companion plant, repelling unwanted insects, and providing stress-relieving qualities.
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Nevertheless, according to one gardening specialist, tending to lavender requires the appropriate pruning techniques to see your plants thrive.
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"While keeping a lavender plant in your garden may be a breeze, proper care involves knowing how to prune it the right way," explained Gardening and horticultural specialist, Hamid Ali, from local services marketplace, Airtasker.
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Whilst pruning varies depending on the season and variety of lavender plant you're cultivating, there are three fundamental steps to observe, reports the Express.
Deadheading
Deadheading lavender involves removing the spent flowerheads and spikes from the plant.
This shouldn't be required if you prune consistently, but it's beneficial practice if you wish to keep your plant appearing "fresh and attractive".
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If you're hesitant about beginning intensive pruning, you can attempt deadheading initially to gauge where to make more substantial cuts.
Lavender is a great addition to any garden for its fragrance, colour and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
(Image: Anna Kurzaeva via Getty Images)
Pruning
The specialist noted: "The general rule for pruning lavender is to avoid cutting back to the woody stems. This will hinder regrowth as the wood that grows on lavender does not rejuvenate.
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"It is also prone to weakening and splitting. So, avoid over-pruning, as this may harm or kill your lavender plant."
It's also recommended to retain fresh new leaves on the stem, according to the specialist.
Shaping
Shaping is primarily done to maintain the appearance of your lavender plants, aiming for an even, dome-like shape.
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If you trim the outer stems shorter than the middle ones, it will promote the desired growth pattern and reduce the need for shaping as your plant matures.
The expert added: "Spring is one of the best times to prune lavender. It's important to prune only if you see new growth in your plants.
"If not, give them more time to grow. Follow the rule of cutting just 5cm to 10cmfrom the woody base and deadhead for the rest of the season."
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Pruning lavender in the summer is optional, but a full pruning by January can prepare the plant for winter and encourage healthy regrowth in the spring. This period can also be used to harvest lavender blooms for various uses.