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Lavandula Angustifolia
(commonly called English Lavender) is native to the south of France, it
grows on the foothills from 500 to 1000mtrs. It enjoys hot summers
and cold winters, (in France the lavender is covered with snow during
the winter) the plants will stand some frost, however, it has been found
they do not flower well when grown in humid climates. In France
lavender grows in stony, depleted soils with a ph of 6-7, the best oil
is produced in poor soil.
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The main requirement for successful
lavender growing is excellent drainage as lavender hates having wet
feet, if you grow your lavender in pots the saucer should be discarded
and the pot raised a little off the ground to allow better drainage.
An application of lime or dolomite each Autumn will maintain the ph of
the soil, while a mineral supplement in Spring is beneficial. |
The best oil is produced in poor soil. |
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Lavender does not
appreciate manure fertilisers but compost spread around the area will
help the natural maintenance of the soil. For pot cultivation the
application of a complete slow release fertiliser is advisable. Do
not cultivate around your plants as this disturbs the surface roots and
any damage to the trunk will allow fungal infection to enter.
Weeds should be removed as lavender does not
like competition. |
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Harvest your lavender early in the
flowering season when the colour is at its best, cut the flowers and
bunch in smallish bunches held together with an elastic band. Hang
upside down in a dry, dark place until the flower is completely dry.
The bunches can now be used as is or can be stripped, by rubbing between
the hands, and used in sachets etc. or pot pourii mixes. |
Don't get lost little one. |
