Are you a fan of lavender but don’t have a lot of outdoor space for a garden? Fortunately, you can still enjoy this fragrant, beautiful plant by growing it in pots. Not only is it an easy and convenient way to grow lavender, but it also allows you to move the plant around to find the perfect spot for it. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about growing lavender in pots.
Choosing the Right Container
When it comes to growing lavender in pots, it’s important to choose the right container. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Size
Make sure your container is big enough to allow your lavender plant to grow and thrive. A container with a diameter of at least 12 inches and a depth of 10 inches is a good place to start.
Drainage
Lavender plants don’t like to sit in water, so make sure your pot has proper drainage. Choose a pot with drainage holes in the bottom or drill your own if they’re not present.
Material
Choose a container made from a breathable material, such as terra cotta or ceramic. Plastic pots can work too, but they don’t allow for much airflow, which can lead to problems with root rot.
Choosing the Right Soil
Lavender plants don’t do well in heavy, moist soil. They prefer well-drained soil that’s on the alkaline side with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. You can mix your own soil using equal parts sand, perlite, and potting mix, or you can buy a ready-made mix.
Planting Lavender in Containers
Now that you have your pot and soil, it’s time to plant your lavender. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Fill Your Pot with Soil
Fill your pot about two-thirds of the way with your soil mix.
Step 2: Add Your Lavender Plant
Gently remove your lavender plant from its original container, being careful not to damage the roots. Place it in the center of the pot.
Step 3: Fill in with Soil
Fill in around the plant with soil, being careful not to cover the base of the plant.
Step 4: Water Your Lavender
Water your lavender thoroughly, but don’t water again until the top inch of soil is dry.
Caring for Lavender in Containers
Now that your lavender is planted, it’s important to care for it properly. Here’s what you need to do:
Watering
As mentioned, let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again. Lavender doesn’t like to sit in water, so make sure your pot has proper drainage.
Pruning
Prune your lavender plant in the spring and early summer to promote bushier growth. You can also remove spent flowers to encourage new growth.
Sunlight
Lavender plants need plenty of sunlight to thrive. Choose a spot for your pot where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Concluding Thoughts
Growing lavender in pots is a great way to enjoy this beautiful plant even if you don’t have a lot of outdoor space. Just make sure to choose the right pot and soil, plant your lavender properly, and care for it regularly. With a little bit of attention and care, your lavender plant will thrive and bring a lovely fragrance to your home.
FAQs
Can lavender grow in pots inside?
Yes, lavender can grow in pots inside, as long as they receive plenty of sunlight and proper care.
Can I grow lavender in a small pot?
It’s not recommended to grow lavender in a small pot, as they need room to grow and develop a healthy root system.
How often do I need to water my lavender plant?
Water your lavender plant once a week, or when the top inch of soil is dry.
