Lavender is an exquisite perennial that produces fragrant purple flowers and is a popular choice for gardens. Pruning is crucial to keep lavender plants healthy and attractive. Knowing when and how to prune your lavender plants can help them thrive and produce abundant blooms. In this article, we will discuss when and how to prune lavender to keep them flourishing all year round.
When to Prune Lavender?
Timing is essential when it comes to pruning lavender. The best time to prune lavender is after the first flowering season has ended, usually in early autumn or spring. Lavender must never be pruned in late summer or fall, as this will result in new growth that will be susceptible to winter damage.
How to Prune Lavender?
Pruning lavender is straightforward, and a few simple steps can ensure that your plants thrive for years to come. Follow these essential steps for pruning your lavender:
Step 1: Cut Back ⅓ of the Plant
In early spring, cut back about a third of the lavender plant’s height. Use pruning shears to cut just above the green growth, leaving about 2-3 inches of growth above the woody stem. This step will promote new growth and keep the plant compact.
Step 2: Trim Spent Flowers
Once the lavender plant has finished blooming, trim away the spent flowers. This action will encourage the plant to produce more blooms.
Step 3: Prune Again in Autumn
In autumn, prune the lavender again by cutting back about one-third of the plant’s height. This will keep the plant tidy and enhance its winter hardiness.
Step 4: Shape the Plant
As your lavender plants grow, they can become leggy or grow unevenly. To maintain a pleasing shape, trim the plant back once per year to encourage new growth from the base of the plant.
Things to consider when pruning:
– Use a clean, sharp pair of pruning shears to make clean cuts on the lavender stems.
– Lavender has a woody stem that shouldn’t be cut while pruning. Trim only the green growth for promoting new growth.
– Avoid pruning lavender in late summer or fall, as it can prompt new growth that is susceptible to winter conditions.
By following these simple steps, you can help your lavender plants thrive and produce a bumper crop of blooms every year.
In conclusion, pruning lavender is vital to keep the plants healthy and encourage abundant blooms. The best time to prune lavender is in early autumn or spring after the first flowering season. Lavender needs only a simple pruning regimen to maintain its shape and promote new growth. By following the tips above, you can ensure that your lavender plants are healthy, happy, and a beautiful addition to your garden.
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Last update 2023-09-22. Price and product availability may change.