▷ When Can I Take Lavender Cuttings?

Lavender is a popular herb known for its relaxing aroma and vibrant lilac blooms. It’s widely planted in home gardens, and with its lovely fragrance, it attracts bees and other pollinators. If you’re looking to expand your lavender collection, knowing when to take cuttings is essential. Taking cuttings is a cost-effective way to propagate new plants from an established one, and in this guide, we’ll discuss when is the best time to do so.

When Can I Take Lavender Cuttings?

Spring

The best period to take lavender cuttings is in early spring, after the last frost date in your area. This timeframe ensures that the plant’s growth hormones are active and high, which encourages fast rooting. Lavender cuttings taken during spring produce strong roots in just a few weeks, and with the weather warming up, it minimizes the risk of fungal or bacterial infections.

Summer

Taking lavender cuttings in summer is still possible, but it’s not the best season. The hot and dry conditions make it hard for newly propagated plants to establish roots, and the heat can easily wilt them. If you have no other option but to take cuttings during summer, make sure to use a rooting hormone and provide partial shade for the plants.

Fall

Fall is another excellent season to take lavender cuttings, specifically in late summer, just before the onset of winter. The plant’s growth rate slows down during this season, preparing it for dormancy. By taking cuttings during this time, it prompts the plant to produce new roots and strengthen its vegetative growth ahead of the next growing season. Ensure to protect the cuttings from frost by providing adequate insulation.

Winter

Taking lavender cuttings during winter is not recommended. During this season, lavender is dormant, and the growth rate is at its slowest. The cold temperature and lack of sunlight make it hard for the cuttings to form roots and grow. If you must take cuttings during this season, keep them indoors under artificial light and use well-draining soil for optimum results.

Preparing Lavender Cuttings

Now that you know the best season to take lavender cuttings, here are simple steps to follow for successful propagation:

Step 1: Choose a healthy and established plant

Select a parent plant that is healthy and free of pests, diseases, and damages. Choose a young stem that is firm and woody – avoid using the soft or old woody stems.

Step 2: Cut the stem

Using a sharp and sterilized knife or scissors, cut a stem that is at least 4 inches long, making the cut below a leaf node.

Step 3: Remove the lower leaves

Strip the lower leaves on the stem, leaving only two or three leaves at the top.

Step 4: Dip the cutting in rooting hormone

Dip the basal end of the stem into rooting hormone powder and shake off the excess.

Step 5: Plant the cutting

Plant the stem into a container filled with well-draining soil mix. Firm the soil to remove any air pockets around the stem. Water the cutting thoroughly, and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Conclusion

Lavender cuttings are easy to propagate, provided that you take them during the right season and follow the proper steps. Spring and fall are the best seasons to take cuttings, while summer and winter are challenging seasons. With these guidelines, you can now expand your lavender collection and enjoy its beauty and fragrance in your garden. Happy planting!

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Last update 2023-06-03. Price and product availability may change.

When Can I Take Lavender Cuttings?