When Do I Prune Back Lavender?

Lavender is a popular perennial plant that is admired for its beautiful flowers and soothing fragrance. However, to maintain its beauty and health, it is essential to prune it back at the right time. Pruning not only promotes new growth but also helps in maintaining its shape, preventing diseases, and extending its lifespan. In this article, we will discuss the best time to prune back lavender and the steps to follow for successful pruning.

When is the best time to prune lavender?

Lavender is a plant that requires regular pruning to keep it in good shape. The best time to prune lavender is in late summer or early fall after the plant has finished blooming. Pruning during this time ensures that you do not cut off any new buds that will develop into flowers. Waiting until later can cause the plant to overwinter with dead growth that can suffocate emerging new growth in the spring.

How to prune back lavender?

Pruning back lavender can be done in a few simple steps:

Step 1:

Begin by inspecting the plant to remove any dead or diseased stems, which will encourage new growth and limit disease problems. Removing dead growth also improves the appearance of the plant’s shape.

Step 2:

Using pruning shears or garden scissors, cut back the plant by one-third its size. Ensure you make clean cuts to avoid damaging the plant. Always cut back to a green stem that is still growing instead of cutting into the woody parts of the plant.

Step 3:

After cutting back the plant, remove any debris such as fallen leaves or twigs that could hinder new growth. Ensure that the area around the plant is clean and free of debris.

Step 4:

Water the plant thoroughly to help it recover from the shock of pruning. Ensure that the plant has enough water to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Additional tips for pruning lavender:

• Avoid pruning lavender in winter or early spring when the plant is dormant, as this can lead to winter damage or kill the plant.
• For severe pruning, take up to 50 percent of the plant’s height, ensuring you do not expose the woody parts to sunlight.
• Do not cut into the dead wood as it can cause damage to the plant and attract pests and diseases.
• Regular maintenance pruning will encourage the plant to bloom and produce new growth.
• Avoid shearing the plant as it can lead to a dense outer layer, which inhibits air circulation and leads to disease

Pruning lavender is essential for a healthy and vibrant plant. As mentioned earlier, it’s best-pruned late summer or early fall, after the plant bloomed, to ensure successful growth in the following year. When pruning, do not remove more than one-third of the plant’s total size, and always ensure that the tools used are clean and sharp to avoid damaging the plant. Proper pruning allows for optimal growth, development, and flowering which ensures your lavender is always looking its best.

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Last update 2023-05-30. Price and product availability may change.