Tips for Growing Lavender in Your UK Garden

Lavender, a timeless favourite, tops UK gardening searches for its beauty, fragrance, and versatility. Here’s how to grow lavender successfully.

Why Lavender?

Lavender is drought tolerant and pollinator-friendly. Perfect for British gardens, it thrives in our climate.

Choosing the Right Variety

English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is hardy and ideal for UK winters. ‘Hidcote’ or ‘Munstead’ offer vibrant purple blooms. For coastal gardens, try French lavender.

Planting Tips

Plant in spring or early autumn in well-drained, sunny spots— lavender hates wet roots. Use sandy or gravelly soil mixed with compost. Space plants 30 cm apart for airflow.

Care and Maintenance

Water sparingly once established; lavender is very low-maintenance. Prune annually after flowering (late summer) to keep plants bushy. Avoid cutting into old wood. For pest control, companion plant with marigolds.

Uses for Lavender

Harvest blooms for dried flowers, sachets, oils, or baking. Its scent repels moths.

 Image - unsplash / Janine Joles